Leander Dendoncker was heavily criticised as Wolverhampton Wanderers suffered a 2-1 defeat at Watford on New Year’s day, but Raul Jimenez also underperformed and was slated by supporters on social media.
The 28-year-old has played a lot of football this season and is at risk of burning out, but Wolves’ lack of cover has forced Nuno Espirito Santo to keep him in the starting lineup.
Jimenez struggled to hit the target with his chances, didn’t create any opportunities for his teammates and was uncharacteristically wasteful in possession. Fans appreciate his contribution this season but can’t deny he’s struggling of late.
Not anywhere near our best. When Jimenez isn’t at it, we’re very one-dimensional in attack. First half it was all Neto, second all Traore. Nothing to help either out. Teams seem quite happy for us to cross the ball as we never seem to get on the end of them #WWFC #WATWOL
— Musings from Molineux (@molineuxmusings) January 1, 2020
Jimenez has been terrible for a month.
His goals have masked poor performances.
Hold up play hasnt been strong enough and not looked sharp.#wwfc
— Quimbo Slice (@GoldenPalaceWW) January 1, 2020
Jimenez is running on empty. Literally had 2 weeks off in the summer but we haven't got good enough back up #wolves #wwfc
— B G (@BG__85) January 1, 2020
Poor today, midfield poor first half. Jimenez’s decision making & hold up play was way off. #wwfc
— ᗩᑎᗪY (@AnnoDomini79) January 1, 2020
Nuno got it wrong today with starting lineup. Dendoncker is far better in a back 3 with Neves and Moutinho's creativity in the middle. Rotating Neto and Jota is understandable. Jimenez was awful today, what does Cutrone need to do?! #wwfc #WATWOL #wolvesaywe
— Wolves Molinews 🐺 (@wolvesmolinews) January 1, 2020
Game was crying out for Cutrone today as Jimenez looked totally off the pace….recovery time caught up with us big time today, as Nuno would say, we rest, recover well and onto the next game #wwfc
— Alex Earp (@alexearp33) January 1, 2020
Jimenez needs a break looks knackered need him back at his best or bring in replacement if cutrone deemed not good enough #wwfc
— Adrian (@Sandhurstwolf) January 1, 2020
Against Watford, the Mexican international played for 90 minutes, made 28 touches, failed to win an aerial duel, completed 77.8% of his 18 passes, failed to register a shot on target, made one successful dribble failed to create a chance and failed to make a tackle or interception.
Despite his poor performance against the Hornets, Jimenez has been outstanding for Wolves this season. He’s made 32 appearances in all competitions, scoring and creating 26 goals. The 28-year-old has scored just two goals in his last eight league games and may benefit from a rest.
Should Nuno give Raul Jimenez a rest?
Yes
