Carabao Cup: Arokodare ready to lead Wolves charge Vs Chelsea, says game could be turning point for Midlands club
Wolves forward Tolu Arokodare is eager to seize his moment under the Molineux lights as his side prepares to host Chelsea in the Carabao Cup.
The Nigerian striker, who found the net in the previous round against Everton, is hoping head coach Vitor Pereira hands him a starting role in Wednesday’s high-stakes encounter.
‘It’s a big game, no doubt. Chelsea are a top side, and we’re at a crucial stage in the competition. But we’ve done well in the Carabao Cup so far, and we want to keep that momentum going. It’s a chance to shift our focus from the league and give the fans something to cheer about,’ Arokodare told the club’s official website.
The 24-year-old has been limited to substitute appearances in recent Premier League matches, but he remains optimistic that a strong cup performance could spark a turnaround for the team’s league form.
‘We’ve been unlucky in the league, especially in the final minutes of games,’ he admitted. ‘It’s frustrating, for us and for the fans. But we’re sticking together, staying strong, and fighting as one. That’s the only way forward.’
Arokodare praised the unity within the squad, noting that goals have come from all areas of the pitch, a sign of collective effort.
‘Whether it’s defenders, midfielders, or strikers, everyone’s contributing. We win together, we lose together. That’s the mentality we’re carrying through the season.’
On a personal level, the striker is hungry for more minutes and determined to make the most of every opportunity.
‘I’m learning, I’m growing, and I’m staying patient,’ he said. ‘The coach and I have had good conversations. I understand the process, and I’m ready to deliver when called upon. If I get the chance tomorrow, I’ll give everything, for the team, for the fans, and for myself.’
Reflecting on his goal against Everton, Arokodare acknowledged the added pressure that comes with expectations.
‘It gave me confidence, but it also means people expect more. That’s part of the job. I welcome that pressure, I just need the chances, and I’ll do my best to take them.’
He also touched on his budding partnership with fellow forward Strand Larsen. “It’s still developing,” he explained. “The first time we played together was against Leeds, and it was a bit rough. But against Sunderland, you could see the chemistry starting to build. He’s got great vision, and we’re learning how to complement each other’s styles.”
Looking ahead, Arokodare believes a win over Chelsea could be a turning point. ‘Beating a team like that would be massive, not just for the cup, but for our mindset. It would show us what we’re capable of and give us the belief to carry into the league. That’s what we’re aiming for.’
