Rotherham United defender Wes Harding has reiterated that the club’s Sky Bet Championship fate will not be decided in the next two games – whilst acknowledging their obvious magnitude – but has insisted he and his teammates will play each fixture between now and 8th May as if it were their last.
The versatile operator has endeared himself to the AESSEAL New York Stadium faithful - even though they are yet to see him live in action as a result of the coronavirus pandemic – with his accomplished performances across the Millers’ back line since his summer arrival from St. Andrew's.
Whilst clearly keeping a steady head during his interview with www.themillers.co.uk, Harding was keen not to overplay the importance of the upcoming two games against Coventry City and his former employers Birmingham City, but was also quick to stress that the dressing room is aware of how these results could shape their survival fight.
"There are still six games left after the two coming up. We're not at the end yet, but we'll play each game as if it is our last and see where that takes us."
"Tuesday's win means that we've had a decent start to this week.
"It was a massive result and we can really kick on from that now.
"We've got a brilliant chance against Cov on Thursday and we're all really looking forward to it.”
The 24-year-old continued to explain that following the Tuesday night triumph over Queens Park Rangers and after a commendable draw against Huddersfield Town on the Saturday prior, the mood amongst players and staff is upbeat moving into the next two games.
Whilst the schedule is far from ideal in terms of rest and recuperation, the defender did admit that he and a number of his teammates are enjoying the frenetic nature of games flowing thick and fast, so far.
"Everyone is positive and looking forward to playing in another big game,” Harding added.
“We're loving the amount of games we've got on the bounce.
"Personally, that's what I came to this football club for and I'm happy that I'm getting regular games.
"I'm thankful to the people here. That is what you want to do as a footballer, you want to play games and you don't want to be sat watching. On a personal note, I'm happy to be doing that.
"The morale is high, the lads are buzzing.”
Whilst speaking ahead of the welcoming of Mark Robins’ Sky Blues on Thursday, Harding couldn’t help but cast an eye forward to the visit of his former club Birmingham City on Sunday, adding that he is very much looking forward to going up against some familiar faces at the weekend.
"Coventry is obviously a big game and one I'm looking forward to playing in, but of course, the game against Birmingham on Sunday has something extra for me,” he admitted.
"They've managed to climb away from danger a bit and I think they have escaped it now, but nevertheless it is another big game.
"There are two massive games to go to finish this big week and we'll be ready for both of them.”