Mental strength is key to victory - De Jong

[Mark (Blue Army)]

According to Nigel de Jong mental strength with be the key to victory in Wednesday's crunch meeting with Tottenham.

Victory on the night will make either side odds-on favourites to clinch fourth place in the Premier League and with it a spot in the qualifying competition for the Champions League proper.

“There is quality in both sides and in the end it may come down to who handles the occasion the better,” reckoned the Dutch ace who is heading for more big games this summer with the Holland World Cup squad.

“At this stage of the season and with so much at stake it will be a time for strong minds as well as strong bodies.

"We have a lot of experience in our
squad, people who have played for club
and country in high pressure situations.
We are ready for the challenge"

“Although we have one game still to play after Tottenham we must treat it as a final. We have to win the game, I feel, if we are to finish fourth.

“We go into the contest in good heart after the way we came back from a goal down against Villa. We showed we are ready for the fight.”

The club has already issued a call to arms to supporters for tomorrow night when the atmosphere is set to be crackling and DeJong emphasised the importance of the home support.

“Our fans can play a major role in the game,” he declared.

“They have been right behind us all season with pretty much sell outs in every game. We all need to raise our game against Spurs, players always respond to positive backing and we are no different.

“It promises to be an attacking game although patience also come into things. Spurs only need a draw to stay ahead of us but I think they will come and try to win the game. It should be a great occasion – if we win!”

mcfc.co.uk