Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer expressed their delight at witnessing Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Gary O’Neil exact revenge on his former club Bournemouth. O’Neil, who had previously ensured Bournemouth’s Premier League survival, was abruptly replaced by Andoni Iraola. Wolves appointed O’Neil as Julen Lopetegui’s successor, marking his return to the Vitality Stadium.
In a thrilling match, O’Neil’s Wolves came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory, with Sasa Kalajdzic netting a late winner against the 10-man Cherries.
During The Rest is Football podcast, Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer shared their thoughts on O’Neil’s triumphant return. Lineker suggested that O’Neil’s win against Bournemouth was the standout “Premier League moment of the weekend.” Lineker pointed out that even though O’Neil downplayed his role as the central figure in the game, he would have undoubtedly relished beating his former club, even if he didn’t show it outwardly.
Shearer added that he believed O’Neil had been “hoping and praying” for three points against Bournemouth, emphasizing that Bournemouth’s decision to sack O’Neil was “stupid” and “harsh” in the first place. Shearer also expressed his satisfaction with Wolves’ strong position in the Premier League standings.
While Wolves should not prematurely celebrate their victory, O’Neil’s situation illustrates the rapid changes that can occur in football. Bournemouth appeared settled with O’Neil as their manager at the end of the previous season but opted for Iraola instead. The decision has not worked out well, and Iraola is facing mounting pressure while O’Neil continues to impress at Wolves.
When O’Neil was let go by Bournemouth, Wolves were hoping to retain Julen Lopetegui, but he departed. Despite a concerning summer transfer window, O’Neil has done an excellent job and achieved victory over his former club. The focus remains on O’Neil and Wolves as they aim for further success, recognizing that defeating Bournemouth is just one chapter in their ongoing journey.
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