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Hindsight is a wonderful thing and Wolves were not blind to their needs before the transfer window closed.

Yerson Mosquera's serious knee injury, which is likely to end his season, leaves the squad even more stretched in a crucial defensive area.

A replacement for Max Kilman after his move to West Ham was key even before any injuries, but restrictions and availability hampered Wolves.

After being beaten by Ipswich to the signing of Dara O'Shea, they looked at defenders, including Aston Villa's Diego Carlos but a deal never progressed from the exploration stage given the potential cost.

West Ham's Nayef Aguerd also rejected a move to Molineux before heading on loan to Real Sociedad.

Other defenders in the Premier League were considered, so it was not for the want of trying or any lack of recognition of what they needed.

Boss Gary O'Neil has always been ready to play the cards he is dealt, although now his hand is weaker.

Liverpool come to Molineux on Saturday with Wolves still bottom and winless - although performances point to deserving better.

The crucial thing for O'Neil and his staff now is to continue to navigate the squad through a tough time and ensure morale does not dip.

No internal panic buttons are being pressed and O'Neil feels reassured, but he is also sensible enough to recognise the sooner the wins come the better.