Christophe Berra believes his Wolves defensive partner Jody Craddock has won over the doubters after playing a key role in their Barclays Premier League survival battle.
Craddock was unsure of his place in the starting line-up at the start of the campaign, particularly with manager Mick McCarthy re-signing Michael Mancienne from Chelsea for a second loan spell. But the veteran defender and Berra have impressed at the heart of the Wolves back four and helped pushed them six points clear of the bottom three with four games remaining.
And Craddock's performances have already earned him a new contract offer from McCarthy. Berra said: "Jody's had a very consistent season and done very well. I think at the start a few fans doubted that he could do it in the Premier League."
He added: "But he has proved them wrong and everyone at the club knew how good he was and how professional he was.
"He works so hard in training, is always in the gym - and you can see the benefits from all of that in the games that he plays.
"Jody is an experienced defender who has been about a long time and, the things he does, he does at 110%. He continues to put in consistent performances and, if you do that, it goes a long way to making you a good centre-half."
Berra is adamant Wolves are taking nothing for granted in terms of staying in the top flight despite losing only one of their last six games and collecting nine points.
He said: "Some people have said we are all but safe now but none of us is taking anything for granted.
"It's still very tight down and there is still work to be done."
Source: PA
