McCarthy realistic over chances

Wolves have slipped into the bottom three of the Premier League after conceding four goals against Arsenal at home and away to Chelsea.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.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."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."We will be judged on three of the four next games most certainly - and they are the big, important games coming up for us."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.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."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."We haven't played with fear and maybe that's to our credit but we need to get points."McCarthy is adamant the confidence of the squad has not been jolted despite taking only three points from the last 21.He said: "The players are fine. There are no problems. I don't feel any negative vibes at all."Wolves' record signing Kevin Doyle will return to the squad against Blues.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.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. Wolves 11/8, Birmingham 2/1, Draw 9/4  

Source: Team_Talk