Liverpool suffered a Molineux nightmare as Jurgen Klopp’s side were outclassed by Wolves.
Joel Matip’s own goal, Craig Dawson’s debut strike and Ruben Neves’ effort sealed a stunning 3-0 win for the hosts as the shambolic Reds continued to sink.
Liverpool are floundering in 10th after a third straight Premier League away defeat and - aside from a spell after the break - were embarrassed by fired-up Wolves.
Next up they welcome a reinvigorated Everton before a trip to Newcastle serves as a stark reminder of the change in fortunes at Anfield and St James’ Park.
With the Reds already out of title contention, only the most optimistic supporter would back them not to be knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid in March.
There is a direction to Wolves which is missing at Liverpool. Julen Lopetegui has been backed with six new recruits in January and it is hard to ignore the sense Molineux is steeled for the survival fight.
They had been plunged back into the relegation zone by Everton’s early win over Arsenal but responded in style, ahead of potential season-defining games with Southampton and Bournemouth.