Wolves Team News and Predicted Lineup vs Newcastle for January 18

Wolverhampton Wanderers return to Premier League action at Molineux as they welcome Newcastle United on January 18. With points crucial in their fight for survival, Rob Edwards is expected to name a strong starting squad, whilst maintaining the formation and tactics that have sparked the recent upturn in form. Here is our Wolves team news and predicted lineup.

Wolves Predicted Lineup vs Newcastle As Edwards Seeks Momentum

How Wolves Have Lined Up Recently

Wolves have continued to favour a back three under Edwards, a system that has provided greater defensive solidity in recent weeks. Last time out against Shrewsbury, Sam Johnstone started in goal behind a defensive trio of Matt Doherty, Santiago Bueno, and Ladislav Krejčí.

The wing-back roles were occupied by Jackson Tchatchoua on the right and David Møller Wolfe on the left, both tasked with providing width while maintaining their defensive discipline. In midfield, João Gomes operated as the anchor, supported by Jhon Arias and André. Hwang Hee-chan and Jørgen Strand Larsen led the attack.

Wolves Recent Form And Tactics

After a historically difficult start to the campaign, Wolves have shown signs of improvement, beginning 2026 unbeaten. A victory over West Ham, followed by a hard-fought draw against Everton, and a 6-1 thrashing of Shrewsbury, has lifted confidence within the squad, with the Old Gold collecting more points in their last three matches than across the previous eighteen.

Edwards has prioritised defensive compactness, with the 3-5-2 shape allowing Wolves to remain organised out of possession while still offering outlets on the counter-attack. Against Newcastle, Wolves are likely to concede territory at times but will aim to remain compact centrally, frustrate their opponents, and exploit space in behind when opportunities arise.

Team News And Injuries To Consider

Marshall Munetsi has been loaned out to Paris FC for the rest of the season. Emmanuel Agbadou has returned to the squad from the AFCON, and Edwards said during the pre-match press conference that Tawanda Chirewa has been ill.

Wolves Predicted Lineup

GK: José Sá

Defence: Yerson Mosquera – Ladislav Krejčí – Santiago Bueno

Midfield:  Jackson Tchatchoua – João Gomes – Jhon Arias – Mateus Mané – Hugo Bueno

Forwards: Hwang Hee-chan – Jørgen Strand Larsen