Wolves boss Mick McCarthy is confident his current squad is good enough to ensure Barclays Premier League survival. Wolves entered the new year in 15th position with a reasonable return of 19 points from 20 games.

And McCarthy has seen sufficient improvement in recent weeks to have belief that the players at his disposal are good enough to stay above the drop zone.

McCarthy said: "We are in a better position than some of the clubs. We are out of that bottom three. We'd like to be better off, obviously but I think we are improving and getting better.

"I don't know what business other clubs will do in January but, if we can't do anything ourselves, then I am delighted with the squad I've got.

"I think the squad I've got will still finish above three other teams. That is the main thing.

"We are improving, one or two players have found their feet and are starting to look more comfortable. We are okay.

"Let me tell you, I'll take 17th position at the end of the season. Go and ask around Wolverhampton what they will all take, 17th, survival. I will take 17th now.

"In any case, we might not be able to do anything in the transfer window. We are relying on other people (making players available) to be able to do anything."

McCarthy revealed: "I would think Michael Kightly and Dave Edwards will be back the third week of January.

"They will be back in three to four weeks. How vital it will be (to sign players) will be found out at the end of the season.

"But we have got some players coming back which will make a big difference to us."