WILDER’S WINNING RECIPE
Two wins and a tasty finish will see Boro in play-offs says Chris
BY SIMON BIRD CHRIS
Wilder is convinced
“two wins and a big finish” will get his Middlesbrough team into the play-offs.
The Teesside boss (left) is desperate to get the club back to the top flight, but they suffered a five-game winless streak before beating Cardiff in midweek.
Boro need a win at home against Stoke, to keep their outside chance of the top six alive, and Wilder is convinced it will happen.
“I think, if we win our two games, it will be enough,” he said. “I am all-in and 100 percent to make this club right and successful, and bring good times back here.
“We are in the hunt, we have kept it alive, and we want it alive next week.
“This is what happens when you don’t find consistency through the season. But we are delighted we are in the mix.
“The players have to set the tone, but there is an incredibly important role for the crowd on Saturday. They have to set the tone too.
“We could do with a big lift from the fans, who have been tremendous. We need a big finish.
“It was edgy on Wednesday against Cardiff until we scored, the shackles came off the players, and the mood lifted in the stadium.
“There is a lot of football to be played. If we win twice and the team above us go and get results, it’s terrific for, say,
Luton. Sheffield United as well. If they win both, they deserve the playoffs. But we are still there.”
Manager Wilder has paid tribute to attacker Marcus Tavernier for overcoming injury to score in midweek against the Bluebirds.
“He gives us energy, how he takes the ball is brave in possession. He is fabulous. He found us a big moment on Wednesday,” Wilder added.
“You have to stand up in big moments of the season and I want to see leaders. Tav, Jonny Howson, Sol Bamba.”