Joao Gomes believes much of his good work on the pitch is now touched by the work Gary O’Neil is doing with him.
The Brazilian waited until the perfect moment to score his first goals of the season on Saturday, striking in either half to earn Wolves a big win away at Tottenham Hotspur. The 23-year-old headed home Pablo Sarabia’s corner and finished off a Pedro Neto counter attack by arriving late into the box, which is a part of his game he’s been given freedom to use by O’Neil, and Wolves are reaping the benefit.
On repaying O’Neil
“I feel like that I can become much better than I’ve ever been. Our coach gives me a lot of freedom for this, to become the player I want to be, and maybe get to the box.
“I believe that everything I’ve been experiencing nowadays has the touch of my coach. He is the one who gives me confidence, lifts me up, on the days when I am not well, and I hope to give back as much as I can.”
On getting back in the goals
“I think it was the first time in my career that I’ve scored two goals in a match. That’s really rare, especially for a player like me that barely gets to the box.
“I scored at least one in Brazil, against Sao Paulo FC, but it’s been a long time ago. Now I’m very happy here and hoping to be able to continue this work.”
On his celebration
“Yes, I will have my first child. We are expecting on 16th May. I’m now really anxious for his birth, that’s pretty much it, but I’m really happy.”
Good morning, everyone 👋
— Wolves (@Wolves) February 18, 2024
But especially you, @GomesOficial08 ✌️ pic.twitter.com/oijkjt3Fbl
On the Brazil coach watching
“It’s been a while since I talked to him, since he left Flamengo. I didn’t know he was here. Genuinely, I am not that worried about that. I just want to do my job in the best way possible, and, God willing, I would be ready to go to represent the national team.
“Obviously it changes a lot of things [his perception]. I hope to go ahead with my job, and maybe there will be the day that I would be able to play for my country.”
On missing his fellow Brazilian
“Yes, Matheus’ injury was some very bad news. Hopefully he will be back as soon as possible to help us.”
