Jorgen Strand Larsen has taken a while to make an impact this season but the Norwegian is finally up to speed. The forward has scored three goals in his last two appearances.
Aside from a hamstring injury earlier in the campaign, Strand Larsen has been a mainstay under Vitor Pereira, and his recent form has confirmed the Wolves manager was right to stick with him.
Although Matheus Cunha is the player attracting the most interest ahead of the summer transfer window, Strand Larsen’s recent performances prove Wolves shouldn’t be too worried about losing the Brazilian.
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Photo by Jack Thomas - WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images
Photo by Jack Thomas – WWFC/Wolves via Getty Images
How Jorgen Strand Larsen has performed without Matheus Cunha
Strand Larsen has featured prominently alongside Cunha throughout the season for Wolves. The pair have lined up together a total of 26 times, across all competitions, this term.
However, with Cunha suspended following a violent FA Cup outburst — the second time this season he’s been banned for poor discipline — Strand Larsen has led the Old Gold’s line alone on five occasions.
Surprisingly, or perhaps, to some, unsurprisingly, the young Norway international is far more effective when playing without Cunha.
A graphic comparing Jorgen Strand Larsen's performances for Wolves with and without Matheus Cunha.
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As Sofascore’s stats prove, Strand Larsen not only averages a goal or assist in less time when playing without Cunha but he is also involved with play inside the opposition’s box on a lot more occasions.
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No Cunha, no problem
Cunha is wanted by all the top clubs, and although he backtracked on recent transfer revelations, very few expect him to still be a Wolves player next season.
The Brazilian has a release clause worth £62.5 million in his latest contract, making him an attainable target for many clubs, including Arsenal, who, despite Mikel Arteta’s reservations, would benefit from his inclusion next season.
And should Cunha depart Molineux, although his quality and profile will be tough to replace, it seems Pereira has a readymade replacement already available, potentially saving Fosun millions in transfer fees.
Everyone’s a winner…