Wolves manager Bruno Lage defended his decision not to start Adama Traore at Crystal Palace and dismissed talk it was to do with his contract situation.
Second-half goals from Wilfried Zaha and Conor Gallagher consigned Wanderers to a first defeat in six games following a 2-0 reverse in south London.
After struggling to dictate possession or create chances at Selhurst Park it was put to Lage the game may have suited Traore, who thrived in a counter-attacking system under Nuno Espirito Santo.
Without a goal or assist this season, the former Barcelona attacker was dropped to the bench for the 2-1 win over Everton on Monday and only played the final 22 minutes against Palace.