Wolverhampton Wanderers fans are expressing their frustration with their players after what they’ve called a “terrible performance” in Wolves’ 2-1 defeat to Ipswich Town. Many supporters have taken to social media to criticize the player, labeling him the “worst signing of the season” and demanding his immediate removal from the club. The loss has further intensified the pressure on the team, with Doherty becoming the primary target of fan anger.
A Costly Defeat
Wolves’ trip to Portman Road was expected to yield a much-needed result as they looked to stabilize their inconsistent form this season. However, Ipswich outclassed them in key moments, taking all three points with a resilient performance. While Wolves managed to pull a goal back late in the game, Doherty’s display throughout the match drew the ire of fans, with many blaming him for key defensive errors that led to Ipswich’s goals.
The defeat leaves Wolves in a precarious position, with fans growing restless over the lack of improvement in recent weeks.
Fan Backlash Against Matt Doherty
Once a fan favorite during his first stint at the club, Doherty returned to Wolves in the summer with high expectations. However, his performances have been underwhelming, and last night’s outing against Ipswich appears to have been the breaking point for many supporters.
On social media, fans did not hold back in their criticism of Doherty:
•“What has happened to Doherty? He’s a shadow of the player we had a few years ago. Get him out of the club ASAP!”
•“I don’t think I’ve ever seen a worse performance from a Wolves player. He can’t defend, can’t attack, and keeps losing the ball. Enough is enough!”
•“Doherty is officially the worst signing we’ve made this season. He’s been terrible in every game so far, but tonight was the final straw.”
Many fans pointed to specific moments in the match, including Doherty’s lack of awareness during Ipswich’s first goal and his failure to track back in the lead-up to their second.
What Went Wrong for Doherty?
Doherty’s struggles against Ipswich were evident from the outset. He appeared off the pace, struggling to keep up with Ipswich’s wide players and often losing possession in dangerous areas. His defensive positioning was called into question multiple times, with Ipswich exploiting gaps down Wolves’ right flank.
Offensively, Doherty also failed to make an impact. His crossing lacked accuracy, and his link-up play with the midfield and forwards was virtually non-existent. For a player who was once known for his ability to contribute both defensively and in attack, the performance was a far cry from his best.
A Growing Trend of Poor Performances
This latest outing is just one in a string of underwhelming displays from Doherty since his return to Wolves. Fans had hoped that the 31-year-old would bring experience and stability to the squad, but instead, his performances have been inconsistent at best and outright poor at worst.
Some supporters have questioned whether Doherty’s best days are behind him, with one fan stating:
“We signed him for nostalgia, but he’s clearly not up to the level we need anymore. It’s time to move on.”
Manager’s Stance on Doherty
Wolves manager Gary O’Neil defended his team after the game but admitted that individual errors had cost them dearly. When asked specifically about Doherty’s performance, O’Neil avoided placing blame on any one player:
•“It was a tough game, and as a team, we didn’t do enough to get the result. Everyone has to take responsibility, myself included.”
However, O’Neil’s reluctance to single out Doherty did little to appease fans, many of whom feel that the manager needs to take a firmer stance and make changes to the lineup.
What’s Next for Wolves and Doherty?
The loss to Ipswich has left Wolves in a precarious position, both in terms of their league standing and the relationship between the team and its supporters. With the January transfer window approaching, fans are calling for significant changes, including the possible sale of Doherty and the recruitment of reinforcements in defense.
For Doherty, the next few weeks will be critical. If he is to win back the support of Wolves fans, he will need to deliver a series of strong performances and prove that he still has what it takes to compete at this level.
Conclusion
Matt Doherty’s performance against Ipswich has drawn widespread criticism from Wolves fans, with many calling for him to be sold following what they described as a “shambolic” display. While Doherty’s struggles have been evident throughout the season, last night’s match appears to have been the breaking point for supporters.
As Wolves look to bounce back from this latest setback, the pressure is on Doherty and the rest of the squad to deliver improved performances. For now, however, the relationship between the player and the fans remains fractured, with calls for change growing louder with each disappointing result.
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