Preston North End defender ready for 'world class' test of Premier League Wolves

PNE make their trip to Premier League side Wolves in the second round of the Carabao Cup, 7:45pm, to face off against a side that have been in European competition in the last few years.

They boast global names such as Raul Jimenez and Joao Moutinho, with the former only on the bench against Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday.

“When they make 10 changes they're still world class players in a squad of 28 or 29,” Cunningham said.

"For Bruno Lage, if he makes some changes which I'd imagine he will, if you look at the bench when Wovles played at the weekend against Spurs, they're still world class players.

"I don't think in any way, regardless of if they make changes, that their squad is less than if they're playing in a Premier League game.

"It's just preference or at that moment in time what he would like to go with, tactically, I still think they'll be a quality outfit and one that we will be prapred for.”

Cunningham came off the bench on Saturday to replace the injured Andrew Hughes for his first league minutes this season.

It was the Irishman’s 150th appearance for the club, across two spells, having been a bit in and out of the side in recent times.

Though a reliable professional, Cunningham admits being left out is not something you can just accept.

He said: “I don't think you can ever be happy with not playing, there will always be that kind of frustration or disappointment. Everyone in this squad is capable of starting on a matchday and producing and putting in a good shift.

"That's the managher's job, it's difficult for him, but he has to pick 11 players on a matchday and then the bench.

"When you're called upon you have to make sure you're ready. We're working really hard and we're all together.

"With the World Cup break things are coming thick and fast so you'll get your opportunity, when it comes you have to take it.

"If you get a run in the team then great, you have to make sure your performances are right.”