Analysis: Loyalty could make Fosun look foolish

Wolves do not want to part company with Vitor Pereira and there is a firm belief they have time to save themselves, yet this season now matches the last, where Wolves did not win any of their opening 10 games under Gary O'Neil.

The former manager clung on for another six games and Wolves recognise they kept faith with him for too long before replacing him with Pereira last December.

It is a mistake owners Fosun want to avoid but their faith in Pereira cannot continue indefinitely while Wolves appear doomed and their patience, however admirable, could ultimately make them look foolish.

Already eight points adrift of safety at the foot of the table, there is no comfort in the club's desire for consistency and stability.

Defeats to newly-promoted trio Leeds, Sunderland and Burnley came before Saturday's limp loss at Craven Cottage, against a side who started the day 17th in the table.

If wins are not coming against those who they could rank as relegation rivals - Sunderland aside after their excellent start - then the question is: when will the victories arrive?

A disastrous defeat against a relegation rival, including a red card and an own goal, made it a nightmare afternoon.