CASH US IF YOU CAN
Poland must face the mighty Messi but Villa defender Matty says: We’re a talented nation
MATTY CASH insists Poland fear no one at the World Cup because they boast an array of Champions League stars – including Robert Lewandowski.
The Aston Villa full-back is hugely excited to be in Qatar with Poland after making his international debut just a year ago.
The Slough-born right-back was headhunted by the Polish FA and is determined to repay the nation after helping them win a play-off against Sweden to reach Doha.
They have been drawn in Group C with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Argentina (their team plane arrives in Qatar, above right), but Cash and co are undaunted as they prepare to open their bid against the Mexicans on Tuesday.
He is taking his lead from confident stars, such as Barcelona frontman Lewandowski, who boasts an impressive 76 goals in 134 internationals, while Juventus duo Wojciech Szczesny and Arkadiusz Milik, and Napoli midfielder Piotr Zielinski, have all played in the Champions League this term, too.
With a monumental clash against Argentina and Lionel Messi that could decide the group looming on November 30, Cash said: “We have a really good team and we have to be positive going in.
“We qualified for a reason and the World Cup is one-off games.
“Argentina are a fantastic side, who, I guess, will be the favourites, but hopefully we can do really well.
“A lot of Champions League players are in the Poland squad. Lewandowski is brilliant and is a presence. When he is there, you know he is there – he is an amazing player.
“In a short space of time, I have played with a number of really good players, who have played at the highest level, like Philippe Coutinho at Villa and Lewandowski.”
Cash has made 14 domestic appearances this term for Villa and started both of their successive wins in the Premier League under new boss Unai Emery. He had a spell out injured when he missed two Villa games and September’s internationals after picking up a hamstring injury.
But he used the time to analyse his performances and assess where he can improve after a rise up the ranks via Nottingham Forest and Villa.
Cash, whose mum’s Polish dad moved to England after being displaced by World War Two, added: “To be an international player from where I was a few years ago is a massive thing.
“Last year, I didn’t miss a minute and played every Premier League game.
“It was frustrating to pick up a little injury, but it was a time for me to reflect on other things. I have tried to look at different aspects of the game during that time.
“I have been doing some analytical work with the Villa guys to see what I can improve on.
“I’ve tried to take a step back to look at it from a different angle on a matchday. During the season you literally don’t have time, you are just playing and doing your best, and then the next game comes and it is moving on.
“To have had a little bit of rest on the legs might have been good for me.”
Now, he hopes to finish a dream year by helping Poland to a great run in Qatar.