Alfred N’Diaye has had to be very patient in his search for first-team football since joining Wolves but he is finally beginning to make a real impact for the league leaders.

The Senegal international made a very late deadline day move from Villarreal to the Black Country back in August and had to settle for a place on the bench initially.

Whilst he still made important contributions, such as the stoppage time winner against Barnsley, N’Diaye’s only starts were coming in the Carabao Cup.

In fairness to Nuno Espirito Santo, with Ruben Neves the man who makes Wolves tick and Romain Saiss playing very well alongside him, there was no need to change anything.

However, a minor hamstring injury to the Moroccan international opened the door for N’Diaye at the end of January and the 27-year old has taken his opportunity with both hands.

The powerful midfielder gives Wolves another big threat going forward and it’s no coincidence that after their performance levels had slightly dipped in recent weeks, Santo’s men have looked back to their scintillating best since N’Diaye stepped in.

Where Saiss prefers to anchor in front of the back three and spray passes out wide, N’Diaye bursts forward which can cause havoc to the opposition.

That was key to the only goal against Ipswich which came from the ex-Hull man breaking from deep, whilst he also has the technical ability to play the way Santo demands.

Even though Wolves only won 1-0 at Portman Road they really should’ve hit several more, as they did against Sheffield United last week.

Once again, N’Diaye was key, giving Wolves something extra going forward that the more defence-minded Saiss doesn’t offer. That’s not a criticism of Saiss who has enjoyed a fine season and brings a lot to the team.

But as he steps up his return to fitness it’s hard to see how he wins his place back with N’Diaye playing so well.

Thoughts, Wolves fans? Who should start out of these two when they’re both fit? Let us know in the comments below.