Selecting the players, games and kits from Old Gold history he deems to be the most underrated is author, Express & Star columnist and Wolves’ former head of media, Paul Berry.
Goalkeeper | Michael Oakes
Wolves have been fortunate to nurture some superb goalkeepers over the last couple of decades. None have made more appearances than Michael Oakes. Perhaps not as commanding in the air as others, or producing as many spectacular saves, but very much an accomplished all-rounder.
Defender | Tony Dinning
Could also play in midfield, that’s how good Tony Dinning was in possession. Loved his graceful and languid style, and he was ahead of his time when operating as a ball-playing centre-back. Sadly, his Wolves career was way too short to see the best of him.
Midfielder | Karl Henry
Mick McCarthy called Karl Henry his ‘water carrier’. And that was a compliment. His team-mates also loved him. Did so much of his work unnoticed, allowing others to shine. A fierce and uncompromising competitor and captain but also a far better footballer than given credit for.
Forward | Kevin Doyle
Similar to Henry, Kevin Doyle was a player who his team-mates were desperate to see in the team. So much selfless running, often to the detriment of his goalscoring threat, and incredible hold-up play. One performance against Liverpool was the true epitome of playing the lone frontman.
Manager | Kenny Jackett
He is certainly not underrated amongst Wolves fans, and his tenure paved the way for the Nuno magic which followed. But maybe outside of the Molineux metropolis it would be. The most meticulous and unflappable of managers, who turned the tanker around and masterminded a record-breaking and memorable League One success.
Shirt | 2008/09 home
The Chaucer shirt. Not to do with the poet behind The Canterbury Tales, but the consulting company founded by later Wolves director Bob Laslett. Nice and smart but also fondly remembered for the season in which Mick McCarthy’s young and hungry brigade propelled Wolves to the Championship title.
Match | Wolves 3-1 Stockport, 1987
As one of the 3,238 that was there, this is a largely low-key afternoon I always remember. A couple of months after Chorley, Wolves were still struggling, and were 1-0 down with 11 minutes to go. Then Messrs Thompson, Holmes and Bull found the net to provide the catalyst for momentum which lasted for the next two-and-a-half years.
Season | 2001/02
Bear with me here. I know it ended horrifically, but some of the football – and goals – earlier in the season were electric. Walsall away, anyone? And the main reason for me why it is underrated is that it made the play-off success the following year so brilliantly sweeter. Out of Darkness Cometh Light.
This article originally featured in Wolves' official 2025/26 matchday programme. Last season's programmes are still available to purchase online through retailers Curtis Sports.
