Kennedy: Hats off to Hoddle

Wolves skipper Mark Kennedy has praised the difference made by Glenn Hoddle since the manager’s appointment at Molineux.

At the end of a turbulent week for England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson, former national boss Hoddle watched his side battle to a 1-1 draw against Luton – the type of point needed if they are to sustain their promotion challenge this season.

The ingredients appear to be in place – Michael Oakes in goal, Joleon Lescott leading a defence protected by Darren Anderton in a defensive midfield role.

In attack they have Carl Cort, the striker who once cost Newcastle £7m (€10.4m) now has four goals in his last two games after opening the scoring at Kenilworth Road.

Kennedy believes this team have developed since their last campaign in the top flight, two seasons ago.

“There’s great belief in the camp, I’ve been here for five years and what we believe we can achieve and this camp is very different, very positive,” he said.

“He’s very impressive,” he said of Hoddle. “His man-management is excellent, if someone is not playing he calls everyone in and tells them exactly why, for whatever reason – tactical, loss of form or to put someone else in.

“He’s very honest with all his players and has the respect of everybody.”

Hoddle was honest enough to admit his side were fortunate to gain a point, although they led until Kevin Nicholls’ late leveller. “It’s a good point against a good team in a winning habit,” Kennedy added. “If we are being ruthless though, we didn’t perform well.”

Hoddle, who could be without Kenny Miller for Tuesday’s clash with Millwall, added: “You can’t play every game as a purist in this league, playing lovely flowing football.

“It’s a bonus point to get something from the game.”