Facing a Newcastle team brimming with confidence was always going to be a tall order for a Wolves outfit with the worst defensive record in the division, but they were a little unfortunate to be behind at the interval at St James' Park.

Wolves boss Vitor Pereira says Mario Lemina is available for selection ahead of Monday's clash with Chelsea. Lemina, axed as captain before Pereira's arrival, requested not to be considered for selection for the midweek defeat to Newcastle United.

Speaking after the defeat at St James' Park, Pereira revealed that Lemina had told him he wishes to depart Molineux and that a move could happen this month

Midfielder Mario Lemina wants to leave Wolves, says head coach Vitor Pereira after their 3-0 defeat at Newcastle.

Mario Lemina has informed Wolves Vitor Pereira of his wish to leave the club this month, amid transfer links to Al-Shabab.

Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach Vitor Pereira says former captain Mario Lemina must decide whether he wants to stay at the club for the remainder of their Premier League relegation battle. The midfielder is the subject of interest from Saudi club Al Shabab — coincidentally Pereira’s former side — and could leave in the January window.

Mario Lemina's decision to apologise for making himself unavailable for Wolves was necessary and offers him a road to redemption - however brief. There is no suggestion the midfielder now wants to stay at Molineux - the expectation remains that he will leave this month - but he has at least recognised the error of his ways.

Wolves midfielder Mario Lemina has reversed his stance at Molineux and declared himself available for selection as he awaits a resolution over his future.

Former Wolverhampton Wanders captain Mario Lemina has performed a major U-turn and declared himself available to play for the club until his future is decided. Head coach Vitor Pereira says the midfielder apologised to him and his fellow players this morning after asking not to feature in Wednesday’s 3-0 defeat at Newcastle.