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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
Sport
Gareth Fullerton

Wolves vs Crusaders Europa League test can wait as Nuno Espirito Santo focuses on Man City

Wolves boss Nuno Espirito Santo is remaining tight-lipped about his side's upcoming Europa League clash with Crusaders .

The Premier League club will host the Irish League underdogs at Molineux next Thursday (July 25) before travelling to North Belfast for the return leg the following Thursday (August 1).

Wolves are currently in China on a pre-season tour where they have been playing in the Premier League Asia Trophy.

They beat Newcastle in Nanjing on Wednesday and will play in Saturday's final against Premier League champions Manchester City in Shanghai.

And Nuno says any thoughts of Crusaders can wait until after the game.

"First we have the game of tomorrow and then we are going to think about Crusaders," he said.

"Saturday's game against Manchester City is a final but it's a preparation game. Our interpretation is to compete and prepare ourselves for what's coming next week."

Nuno believes Wolves' pre-season trip to China has given the club's profile a huge boost.

Wolves' Chinese owners, Fosun, have made a strong marketing push around their team's involvement in this week's Premier League Asia Trophy.

The club have opened a new megastore in Shanghai, launched a clothing range at a well-attended fashion show and promoted Wolves-themed beer.

"Yes, it's definitely (been a success)," said manager Nuno, who guided Wolves to seventh in their first season back in the Premier League last term. "We knew one of the goals of our trip to the Asia Trophy was that.

"We're delighted to be here and the players are being very patient and co-operative.

"It's difficult, with the weather and all these things, but we are really happy to be here. All the events made by the club, the way they appreciate us, the way we go on the street and people share their happiness, it's good."

Captain Conor Coady has also enjoyed his time in China.

The 26-year-old said: "It's been a amazing - the football side of it and the events off the pitch have been fantastic for us.

"The way the people have taken to Wolves and taken us in and shown their support has been fantastic.

"We remember where we were three or four years ago. To be where we are now, we need to make the most of it and make sure we keep on improving."

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