Firstly, I must acknowledge the disappointment we all felt following Thursday night’s Carabao Cup game at Everton, especially with such an incredible away following of nearly 8,000 supporters.
There is no time to feel sorry for ourselves and make excuses – we have to learn quickly, understand what went wrong and where we need to be better, and then make sure we put it into action with a response on the pitch tonight.
We showed our intent with the number of chances created and, after making a really promising start to the game on Thursday, I felt like we were in a strong position to build on the win at Crystal Palace. Unfortunately, as we have experienced this season already, we allowed the opposition some good opportunities that could have been prevented and ultimately they punished us.
That is the nature of football at this level and over the weekend at the training ground we have been really focused on identifying and working on the areas we need to improve.
I have said many times already that we are going through a period of transition and we fully expect to experience ups and downs this season, as the last week has shown. What’s vital after nights like Thursday is that we all stick together, in the same way that we all celebrate together and enjoy the moment after wins like Crystal Palace.
I admit that sometimes it is easier said than done, but it is important that we don’t get too high after a win and we don’t get too low after a defeat. The defeats will test our character and they will hurt in the short term, but we need to show the right mentality to respond in a positive way and remain focused on the bigger picture.
After a defeat you want the next game to come as soon as possible to try and put things right. Thankfully we have that opportunity tonight against the same opposition as Thursday.
Thank you once again to everybody who made the journey to Everton – I fully appreciate the effort that takes with the travel and the expense, especially during the week. Likewise at Crystal Palace last weekend, which again requires a huge effort from those travelling down. It makes us all even more determined to give you something to celebrate this evening.
Howay the lads!
Matthias Jaissle.
Harvey Barnes Exclusive: “I enjoy the new responsibility from the manager."
Warren Barton Interview: “The Entertainers? We’d do alright in today’s game!"
Lowdown on Everton
Remembering Douglas Wright’s Heroic War-time Journey
Hildur Antonsdóttir previews Lasses at St. James’ Park
Alfie Seldon’s Journey so Far...
UNITED is on sale around St. James’ Park tonight for £3.50.
