Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Chris Iwelumo promises to repay fans' faith

Nov 21 2008

have to let it go," he said.

"It's definitely character-building. That's one of the reasons I was delighted to be back. I think it shows some kind of character to come and face the music."

The forward, who has netted three of his 11 goals for Wolves this season after the Norway game, reluctantly came off at half-time.

"I picked up a tight hamstring after 20-25 minutes," he said.

"I wanted to come out for the second half but I was told it's not a wise decision because it could go and that's me out for the year.

"I would probably not do myself any favours so I'm disappointed but I'm delighted to have been involved."

Despite falling to an eighth-minute goal by Maxi Rodriguez, Iwelumo believes the game was a useful exercise ahead of the next World Cup qualifier against Holland in Amsterdam on March 28.

"They got the early goal and you get a wee bit worried, but we stood up well and I thought the boys at the back were fantastic," he said.

"After the first 10 minutes we got in their faces. They were all very comfortable on the ball and their movement was outstanding. Every player has two or three options.

"But I think the whole point of that game was to prepare us for the Holland match, who move the ball around very similarly. And I think we can take positives."