The on loan Chelsea defender has lost his place in Mick McCarthy's team after a couple of poor performances.

Jody Craddock has impressed in his absence, and Mancienne has no gripes about having to win his place back in the side.

The youngster is currently representing the England under-21s, and said: "It was good to get a game (for England under-21s) under my belt. I had a bit of illness before, then when I wanted to come back into the team I had Jody in front of me.

"He has done really well, so I have just got to bide my time and be patient now. Saturday's game (a 1-0 win over Portugal) will have sharpened me up, it's given me a confidence boost and improved my stamina.

"We have another game in midweek and if I play, that will help me again. Playing well for my country will only help me for my club."

He added: "Do I still feel upbeat about things at Wolves? Definitely. We are lacking a few goals at the moment but I think that will come."

On Saturday Wolves travel to Stamford Bridge to face a Chelsea side who have conceded just one goal at home this season.