I’m not getting carried away, says McCarthy
CARDIFF City manager Mick McCarthy insists he is not getting carried away with the thought of reaching the play-offs, but has urged supporters to enjoy the ride.
McCarthy has masterminded the unlikeliest surge to the top six in recent memory, catapulting the Bluebirds from 15th place right into the play-off picture within the space of just 10 games.
It has been an epic journey for Cardiff fans over the last six weeks, no more than they deserved after the hugely disappointing first half of the season, and some are now daring to dream.
The rip-roaring display against Derby County, which resulted in a resounding 4-0 win on Tuesday night, is just the latest performance to prompt the rest of the Championship to sit up and take notice of the Bluebirds.
But, typically, McCarthy is keeping himself and his squad grounded.
“Everybody wants to play, things are good,” McCarthy said. “Long may that continue. But we’ve won nowt yet, that’s for sure.
“There’s no point getting carried away, head in the clouds, everybody gives you a pat on the back and suddenly there’s a knife in their hand.
“I don’t get carried away by that stuff. Nothing nastily, just the way it is.
“Not a chance in this world I’ll be getting carried away. There are a lot of good teams in this league. We’ll just keep pecking away.”
McCarthy has towed the party line of downplaying his side’s chances. But fans, and rival clubs, are really beginning to view City as potential play-off candidates.
Because, with just 12 games to go, there is no denying that City are right in the mix.
Although wins for Bournemouth and Barnsley on Wednesday night just nudged the Welsh capital city club out of the top six momentarily, they have a chance to crowbar their way back in once again on Friday night with a win over Huddersfield.
Cardiff have won seven of their last eight games, and are unbeaten in their last 10 since McCarthy took over, and are arguably the form team in the division.
So, while he might not be getting carried away, what is his message to the supporters?
“Just enjoy it!” he said. “If you lose it’s all doom and gloom and sack the manager, now we’re flying, we’re in the play-offs and getting promoted.
“You won’t get me carried away with it. It’s a lovely time when you’re winning football matches, but you’ve got to win the next one.”