The 32-year-old England international played the second half of the team’s first match in the Premier League Asia Trophy against Newcastle United, but it was the work that was going on behind the scenes in Shanghai which caught his eye, as the club were involved in several events to help promote the Wolves ‘brand’ in China.
But Ruddy will now be hoping he will be given a chance to show what he can do on the pitch by Nuno this week, as Wolves return to competitive action on Thursday evening with the first game of the 2019/20 Europa League campaign against Crusaders at Molineux.
On success of China tour
“It was my first time out here and it’s been a great experience. It’s great to see what the club are trying to build off the pitch.
“We obviously know what they're trying to do on the pitch, but to see the work that goes on behind the scenes, especially over here, it's great and building that Wolves brand is key to that. It's impressive.
“The owners are a big deal over here and Wolves is a big deal for them – the indication is that they really want to kick on a build something really special.
“We’ve felt that for the past couple of years and it's nice to see that coming to fruition.”
On the Wolves Fashion Night in Shanghai
“I’m 32 now and I've seen many things, but nothing like that! I've not ordered any of the gear. I think Adama Traore rocks most of that – they were designed from his clothes – but seeing the furore at the fashion show, it’s huge.
“When I joined two years ago it was clear the owners had big ambitions. We've matched and surpassed them in the past couple of years.
“The owners are backing us, and the manager is keen to get that ambition matched.”
On playing in Europe
“The situation (with the goalkeepers) is the same as it was last year. I come in, I train, I do my work and push on as much as I can.
“Myself, Rui (Patricio) and Will (Norris) push each other every day. We've got three hungry keepers who want to play. Rui's got the shirt and it's up to me and Will to keep pushing him.
“Europe is a great opportunity for the club. We thoroughly deserve being in the competition after what we did last season.”
