Heron Talk
Inter Miami will seek to extend its three-game unbeaten run when it takes on Nashville SC at DRV PNK Stadium on Sunday, Aug. 8.
Ahead of the match, head coach Phil Neville expressed how pleased with the team’s results of late, but is still keeping his feet firmly planted on the ground as he understands there is still a lot left to play for this season.
“We still got a long way to go, we need to keep this run going, we need to keep building confidence and belief, we need to keep winning games of fútbol,” said Neville.
“We’re just making baby steps, we’re improving slowly and we’re beginning to show the quality that I want from the team. That’s been the most pleasing thing but we’ve got many tough battles ahead of us.”
Neville is still encouraged by the players’ attitude, determination, and confidence. As a direct result of this improved mentality, he believes that the squad is focused and ready for this Sunday’s encounter.
“There’s great determination from every single player to play in every single game. I think when you start to get a little bit more belief and confidence, players don't want to be rested or left out. So I think I got a team that’s hungry and every one of them wants to play.
“I’m really pleased with how the players are applying themselves [and] adapting themselves. The focus is there so we are looking forward to the game.”
Midfielder Victor Ulloa, who registered an assist on the equalizing goal against Orlando on Wednesday, is one of the shining examples of Neville’s team mentality as he is willing to do whatever is necessary to ensure the team is successful, both on and off the pitch.
“My attitude and my effort and my willingness to play is always there. I do whatever it takes for the team…I work hard every single day and I bring that attitude, positivity and that leadership. I try to influence the guys around me and hope for the best every single day,” said Ullloa.
Ulloa also praised the team as a collective, highlighting its resilience and mental fortitude on the pitch, especially when faced with adversity.
“We, two times now, came back from being one goal down and that shows the character and the resilience that the group has. We believe that we’re good and that we can come back and win games.
“The most important thing is that as a team, as a collective group, we’ve done a lot better and we’re gaining some confidence…Hopefully this Sunday we can reassure that and get a victory at home.”
With the attack gelling nicely and fortunes changing, Neville believes it is essential for the team to continue sticking with the game plan in order to break down Nashville’s resilient defence.
“Our attacking play is getting better, it’s improving but we need to be making sure that we’re creating more chances…We are starting to cause teams problems with our offensive style and philosophy and that needs to be no different on Sunday,” concluded Neville.
