Belief will be key to cup success
DEREK McINNES last night told his Aberdeen stars League Cup glory can be theirs – as long as they believe.
The Dons could lift their second trophy in three years today with victory over Celtic at Hampden.
The Bhoys’ unbeaten domestic record means the odds are against the Pittodrie side.
But their manager believes his players have got what it takes to pull off a shock – and claim the silverware they set their sights on at the start of the season.
“I have chats with the players every other week and they all say the same thing – we are here to win trophies,” said McInnes.
“We are where we want to be. We’ve put ourselves in the position to go and win the thing now.
“The players need to see that. It’s a challenge for them. It’s a tough game to overcome a tough opponent whose strengths and capabilities we recognise.
“But this is us now. We are here. Let’s now go and get the job done.
“I feel there is a confidence in the team. Not an over-confidence, not a complacency, I think we’re just at the right level at the moment.
“For me it is all about really backing yourself in the game and if there is any opportunity to be positive, whether it’s a pass or a positive bit of play in the final third, I would encourage every one of my players to take the positive option.
“Don’t be restricted or quiet or hampered in any way. Be what you are, play the way you train and be as confident as you can be.
“I don’t have doubts that my players will deal with this game. I want them to play as well as they can and I want them to show what they are all about.
“I don’t doubt the trust they have in themselves to beat Celtic. This is where they want to be and there is a confidence within the team and certain players that will help us.”
Confidence may also be in abundance at Celtic, but McInnes insists the Bhoys are beatable, despite their storming start to the season.
“Celtic have still to prove over a period of time how good they are going to be,” he said.
“They are still human. It’s still just 11 v 11 and I’ve got good players. I still think this is a game we are capable of winning.”