Raul Jimenez Set for Knee Surgery, Out Until January

Raul Jimenez's season has taken a significant blow as the Wolves striker will undergo surgery on his left knee, ruling him out until January. The 35-year-old Mexican forward was forced to leave the pitch just seven minutes before half-time during the Carabao Cup clash against Everton on September 16. Despite hopes for a quick recovery from a medial collateral ligament injury, treatment hasn’t produced the desired results. Wolves' director of performance, Phil Hayward, confirmed that regular scans over the past three weeks revealed insufficient healing. "Unfortunately, Raul's injury has not responded as we expected," Hayward stated. "Normally, a low-grade ligament injury would heal on its own, but that hasn't been the case here. He'll undergo surgery this Friday in London and will need about three months for rehabilitation before returning to play." On a brighter note, Wolves have received encouraging updates on three other injured players. Rodrigo Gomes, dealing with an ankle issue, is progressing well. Hayward mentioned, "It's still early days for him, as he injured a couple of ligaments. We'll get him back outside as soon as the inflammation settles down; it shouldn't be a long-term problem." Bertrand Traore is also on the mend after a hamstring concern. Hayward explained, "It's a minor injury, but it’s located in a tricky part of the muscle that could be prone to recurrence. We’re being cautious, but he’s working hard and should return soon." Boubacar Traore, who has been sidelined with a calf issue, is back training with the rehab team and making good progress. Hayward noted, "He’s responded well to treatment and should be in full training within a week or two." Currently, Wolves sit ninth in the Championship, just outside the play-off spots on goal difference. They are set to face Burnley away this Friday evening.