Corney adds weight to Sheridan's attack

Last updated : 25 April 2007 By The Chairman
Latics owner and Managing director Simon Corney has added weight to Manager John Sheridan's scathing attack on his out of form players who have won just twice in the last 13 matches. Mr Corney said, "We are facing a test of nerve and I'm pretty sure we'll come through it, but some of the lads need to show they want it a bit more. Our fans have been travelling long distances, spending a lot of money, and the least they should expect is a passionate performance. It's not inexcusable to lose a game of football or finish outside the play-offs, but it is inexcusable for anyone to give less than 100 per cent. I don't like saying it, but I think one or two players, for whatever reason, have been guilty of that. People are telling me it's all gone wrong, but I disagree because we're still in a great position, a position I didn't expect at the start of the season. What we need is leadership from the senior players. They have to stand up and be counted because we've got 180 minutes of football to make sure we do it."

"If we do miss out on the play-offs, I hope nobody can look back and feel they could have given more. That would be very unfair on the fans. I, for one, would find it difficult to get motivated for next season knowing we had thrown away this chance because of our attitude. I want the players to remember how they reached the top of the league, to keep telling themselves and each other that they will finish in the top six. This is a difficult little spell for everybody, and I have to say I'd be devastated if we missed out now. Having said that, it's still in our own hands and I believe the games against Brighton and Chesterfield can be relatively straightforward. I could look silly saying this, but I really think we'll end up in the play-offs, hopefully we are just making it hard for ourselves by doing things the 'Latics way'."