Wolverhampton Wanderers have an injury concern over key midfielder Fer López ahead of their trip to Middlesbrough this weekend. The 22-year-old has returned early from Spain Under-21 duty after experiencing physical discomfort, the Royal Spanish Football Federation confirmed.

López missed Spain's 13-0 win over San Marino last Thursday and was not replaced in the squad for their next match. He had played 70 minutes in a 2-1 victory over Finland just days before. Wolves head coach Cesar Peixoto is expected to provide an update on the player's condition at his pre-match press conference on Thursday.

López's importance to Wolves

The potential absence of the playmaker would be a major blow for a Wolves side looking to climb the table. López is the club's top scorer this season with four goals in seven Championship appearances, including the winner against West Bromwich Albion last month. He has started every league game, averaging 85 minutes per match, and has been a central creative force. His goal minutes are particularly impressive, with his four strikes coming from an average of just 149 minutes of play per goal.

Former Wolves winger Matt Jarvis highlighted the midfielder's threat. "Fer López is the man to be wary of," Jarvis said. "I think he’s been running the midfield and the attacking threat." Jarvis also backed López for a future at the highest level, adding, "I could definitely see him playing in the Premier League with ease."

Cover and context

If López is ruled out, Peixoto has options in Tommy Doyle, who can dictate play from a deeper role, and the experienced Jean-Ricner Bellegarde. The squad's injuries page shows Raul Jimenez is also managing a knee problem.

The fixture at the Riverside Stadium takes on added significance with both teams tightly packed in the early standings. Middlesbrough sit one point and one place above Wolves, who have a game in hand. Wolves' form has been mixed, with their last five results reading one win, one draw and three defeats.

After facing Boro, Wolves host Bolton Wanderers and then travel to Burnley. The club's upcoming fixtures list these key matches as they aim to solidify their promotion push. López's fitness will be monitored closely in the coming days, with a final decision likely made on Saturday morning.

Background and full detail: Teesside Live