Wolverhampton Wanderers head coach Nuno Espirito Santo has admitted that he was pleased to seal progression in the EFL Cup after his side defeated Bristol Rovers by a solitary goal at Molineux last night.
The Portuguese made eight changes to his starting XI for the visit of the League One side, who held their own against Wolves in normal time before coming undone at the hands of Bright Enobakhare in extra time.
Championship promotion favourites Wolves were far from their best in their encounter, but Nuno insists that the win was all that mattered as the side booked themselves a place in the fourth round of the competition for the first time in six years.
"The win is the most important thing and to be in the next round," he told reporters afterwards. "Extra time, hard work for the boys, people pushing themselves. But we won.
"It's important to manage all the squad, take a look at the Under-23s and see what they have and try to help us in these moments. It gives us a chance to give minutes. We prepared the players well but much credit to them, they work hard on a daily basis.
"It's a happy feeling. Bristol, credit to them, they pushed us very hard, they came here to fight. In cup competitions there is no division and we know the motivation levels are a big part of it. It was an entertaining game of football."
Wolves - currently second in the Championship on goal difference - next welcome Barnsley to Molineux when league action resumes on Saturday.
Neil Wilkes
