McCarthy realistic over chances

26 November 2009 15:41
Wolves have slipped into the bottom three of the Premier League after conceding four goals against Arsenal at home and away to Chelsea.[LNB]But McCarthy knows forthcoming home games against local rivals Birmingham on Sunday, fellow strugglers Bolton and newly-promoted Burnley before Christmas will carry more significance to their chances of staying in the top flight.[LNB]McCarthy said: "We have to put those games (against Arsenal and Chelsea) to one side. The players kept going and put in a shift as always but we are not judged on these sort of matches.[LNB]"Chelsea are a top-quality side, arguably the best in the league. They have one or two players who cost what all my squad cost so let's put that into perspective.[LNB]"We will be judged on three of the four next games most certainly - and they are the big, important games coming up for us."[LNB]McCarthy has urged his players to come to terms with being involved in a relegation battle as Wolves look to end a run of seven league games without a win since the 2-1 home triumph over Fulham in mid September.[LNB]He said: "You can end up almost with a fear of saying it, not wanting to mention the 'R' (relegation) word. I've said 'that's rubbish' because that's what we're fighting against.[LNB]"If we're in the bottom two after 13 games, that's where we are, so let's understand it, recognise it and deal with it.[LNB]"We haven't played with fear and maybe that's to our credit but we need to get points."[LNB]McCarthy is adamant the confidence of the squad has not been jolted despite taking only three points from the last 21.[LNB]He said: "The players are fine. There are no problems. I don't feel any negative vibes at all."[LNB]Wolves' record signing Kevin Doyle will return to the squad against Blues.[LNB]McCarthy's £6.5million summer capture was rested for the game at Chelsea last weekend following his exertions with the Republic of Ireland during their World Cup play-off with France.[LNB]Full-back Ronald Zubar could also be back in contention after missing the trip to Stamford Bridge with a thigh strain suffered in training after responding to treatment.[LNB][LNB] Wolves 11/8, Birmingham 2/1, Draw 9/4  

Source: Team_Talk