Hwang Hee-chan’s Frustrating Season Takes a Positive Turn
It has been a challenging campaign for Hwang Hee-chan, who was one of Wolves’ standout performers last season. The South Korean forward impressed during the 2023/24 campaign under Gary O’Neil, netting 12 Premier League goals and becoming a key figure in Wolves’ attack. However, this season has been a different story.
Hwang has struggled to replicate his previous form, managing just **two goals in 22 appearances** so far. His playing time has been limited due to stiff competition from Matheus Cunha, Gonçalo Guedes, Rodrigo Gomes, and Jean-Ricner Bellegarde, as well as recurring injury problems that have hampered his rhythm.
Injury Troubles Holding Hwang Back
Injuries have been a persistent issue for Hwang throughout his career, and this season has been no exception. Earlier in the campaign, he missed several matches after **suffering an ankle injury** while on international duty. More recently, he was sidelined again due to a **hamstring issue** sustained in Wolves’ **FA Cup clash against Blackburn Rovers.
With hamstring injuries being a recurring problem for him, fans may have been concerned about his long-term fitness. However, ahead of **Wolves’ upcoming match against Southampton**, Hwang has provided an encouraging update.
Hwang Shares Encouraging Update on Fitness
Speaking to Wolves’ official website, Hwang revealed that he is finally feeling **pain-free** after a difficult period of injuries. The forward admitted that even when he was playing this season, he was often not at 100%, which may explain his dip in form.
“This season has been filled with frustrating moments, but now that I’m free from pain, I’m so happy to be back to my usual self,” Hwang stated.
“As always, I believe I can perform well when I’m injury-free. So many people helped me. I received **great treatment which really helped my recovery. Thanks to that, I was able to return in perfect condition.
“Now, I have no pain at all. The issue has completely gone away, and it even feels **a bit unfamiliar** to run so lightly. It was a **refreshing** period of preparation for this game.”
Wolves Need Hwang to Rediscover His Best Form
Hwang’s return to full fitness is a major boost for **Vitor Pereira**, who appears to rate the forward highly. The Wolves boss recently praised Hwang’s skill set, describing him as **“dangerous because he’s fast, especially in short spaces.”**
With Wolves needing an attacking spark, Pereira will likely turn to Hwang more frequently in the coming weeks. Despite his struggles, the **£14 million signing (BBC Sport)** has shown in the past that he can be a difference-maker when confident and fully fit.
Hwang is a player who thrives on confidence, and a return to form could be crucial for both his personal redemption and Wolves’ push for a strong finish to the season. Every manager he has played under at Molineux has spoken highly of him, showing that his potential is well recognized.
While criticism on social media has often been harsh, there’s no doubt that a fully fit and in-form Hwang Hee-chan can be a major asset for Wolves. Now, it’s all about him rediscovering his belief and rhythm as he looks to make a decisive impact in the remainder of the season.