New York City Football Club Head Coach Ronny Deila has revealed his side are looking forward to the challenge of Minnesota United this weekend.
The two sides face off on Saturday evening at Allianz Field after contrasting fortunes in the U.S. Open Cup this week. NYCFC battled against a strong New England Revolution side to emerge 1-0 winners, while Minnesota fell 2-1 to USL League One side Union Omaha. Despite that result, Deila has not changed his preparation for the game, and is instead relishing the challenge that awaits his team.
“That doesn't affect anything,” Deila said of Minnesota’s midweek loss. “They have a clear style of play. They are a tough team to meet and fight against. They have a home stadium with a lot of people. We're looking forward to that challenge. It's a really fun place to visit when you have that atmosphere, but at the same time we are there to get three points. We need to do as we always do, prepare well, be mentally and physically ready and go out and execute.”
The NYCFC Head Coach also took time out from his press conference to commend Club Captain Sean Johnson on his call up to the National Team. Johnson was a late addition to Gregg Berhalter’s roster following Zack Steffen’s withdrawal, with Deila hailing the quality of Johnson’s play for the Boys in Blue.
“I'm happy for him that he got into the squad,” Deila said. “At the same time, I wish he could get more minutes when he is there. I don't think you can play so much better for us now than he has done lately – five clean sheets – and the captain of our team, that is very good. Hopefully, they can show that quality when he plays games as well.”
