Wright: Town need to be tough mentally (From Gazette)

Wright: Town need to be tough mentally

10:56am Thursday 25th June 2009

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David Wright believes Ipswich Town must develop a ‘mental toughness’.

And if they are to get promoted next season, the defender thinks they should try and emulate Barclays Premier League new-boys Burnley.

Owen Coyle’s team were one of the surprise packages in last season’s Coca-Cola Championship and booked their spot among the elite after beating Sheffield United in the play-off final at Wembley.

Now, as Town target a promotion of their own, full-back Wright told the Gazette: “Burnley were a very good team.

“In terms of digging deep and grinding out 1-0 wins, they were one of the best in the Championship.

“That’s what we need to do.

“Some of the senior boys know how to do that individually but we need to do it as an 11.

“Sometimes games can be dreadful but all that matters is three points at the end of it.

“That’s what we need to learn very quickly – to win ugly.

“We lacked that last year – the results speak for themselves – and didn’t have a mental toughness at home.”

Wright also believes his side should take a leaf out of Wolves’ book.

The Black Country side were consistent throughout the season, apart from one or two wobbles, and were deservedly crowned champions, also gaining promotion to the Premier League.

“Wolves had momentum right from the start of the season and kept it going until the end,” said Wright, who previously played in the top flight with Wigan.

“When you’re on a roll like that, you take some stopping.

“Momentum is the main thing and that’s why we didn’t want last season to fizzle out.

“We weren’t going to make the play-offs but still wanted to win, for personal and professional pride.

“Hopefully we can take that form into next season.”

Wright has reported back early for pre-season training while he recovers from a hamstring injury.

The problem dates back to last season and forced him to miss Roy Keane’s first games as Blues manager – away to Cardiff and at home to Coventry.

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