Archive
Carver: 'We Will Step Up To The Plate'
Written by Newcastle Utd
John Carver is confident his players will "step up to the plate" in their crucial fixture against West Ham
By Emily Bulmer
John Carver is confident his players will "step up to the plate" in their crucial Barclays Premier League fixture against West Ham United on Sunday (3pm kick-off).
The Magpies host the Hammers at St. James' Park knowing victory would secure their top flight status for another season.
Last November, West Ham ended Newcastle's six- game winning run with a 1-0 triumph at Upton Park, courtesy of Aaron Creswell's first goal for the club.
But Carver believes it will be a different outcome this time around, as he eyes a winning finish to the 2014/15 campaign.
"I'm looking forward to the challenge," said the head coach.
"I have enough players in that dressing room who realise how much this game means. Let's be honest - it's the biggest game at this football club for six years.
"I'm sure that Sam (Allardyce, West Ham manager) will bring his strongest team here. Everybody wants to win a Premier League football match and Sam and Kevin Nolan won't be any different.
"I'm expecting the players to step up to the plate and put in a big performance that's worthy of keeping them in the Premier League.
"We have to win this game. I said a few weeks ago that four points was the target and we got one against West Brom so yes, we have to win.
"The lads have to play to the game and not the occasion because sometimes you can get carried away with what's going on around the outside, but they need to stay composed.
"We can't fear wanting to get on the ball and play, if we get that reaction and we get on the ball then I'm confident.
"I'm expecting the atmosphere to be electric. Against West Brom it was like being in a proper football stadium again - it was fantastic. I know that for the 90 minutes on Sunday it'll be the same.
"Six years ago it wasn't in our hands but it is now. We can take care of our own business and that's the important thing."
Limited tickets remain for Sunday's home fixture against West Ham. To secure your seat at St. James' Park, click here.