Nick Cushing is eager for his side to extend their winning streak to three games on Saturday.
New York City FC welcome Charlotte FC to Yankee Stadium this weekend knowing that the right result would extend their winning streak to three games.
City have been able to climb the Eastern Conference standings in recent weeks thanks to a string of positive results, and a victory against Dean Smith’s side would only enhance those efforts further.
Asked about the incentive of delivering a three-game winning streak to supporters, Cushing replied, “I think that the three-game run is something that we have a huge desire to achieve.
“I said after the game in the locker room it has been a long time since we've gone back-to-back—too long really since we went back-to-back—so it's good to enjoy that after the game.
“Now we have the opportunity to do a three-game run. We have to make sure we do that before we think about anything else.”
Charlotte will arrive in the Five Boroughs fresh off a challenging 3-0 defeat at home to Minnesota United.
Dean Smith will be eager for his side to bounce back against City this weekend with Cushing keen to stress that Charlotte pose a different test when compared to City's recent opposition.
Cushing also expressed his belief that the test Charlotte offer could in turn allow for changes to the team as they seek to give themselves the best chance of winning the game.
“It's going to be a different game [compared to D.C. United],” Cushing said.
“I think we have to focus on what we are strong at and why we've put up good performances. At the same time I think there is an opportunity to change the team based off the style of the game and the profile of players that we have.
“We're starting to piece together what we feel will be critical in the game and then we will pick the guys that we feel will really suit that.
“We're getting to the point now where there's guys that are really chomping at the bit to get a game so that is definitely in my thinking.”
The Head Coach was also asked about the form of Santiago Rodríguez after his Player of the Match performance against D.C. last time out.
The Uruguayan celebrated his 100th league appearance for City when they took on D.C. United last weekend, and finished the game with a goal and an assist.
Reflecting on Rodríguez’s recent performances and contirubtions to the team Cushing was full of praise for his number ten.
“Santi has been excellent,” he stated.
“I said after the D.C. game it was a masterclass from him. Not only his effort, his energy, and his desire, but his decisions and his creativity.
“He obviously got the goal and the assist, but he has also been someone that can almost dictate the play for us. He has a real ability to play at a high intensity.
“Santi is really leading the team with his performances and with his offensive impact. I think for us it's about continuing to push him forward.
“I spoke to the team this week and I said the key with Santi Rodríguez is where we’re getting him the ball. These guys [players like Santi], want to come deeper and they want to get on the ball. They have a real desire to dictate the game.
“For me, it is about him dictating the game between the lines and in front of the defensive backline in positions where he can really affect the game.
“I think we've done a better job at that and we must continue it. When he plays well the team plays well. He played well against D.C. and he's hungry to continue that."
