For my players, yes. And for the fans, yes. "Yes, I would like to win the trophy. I'm pretty sure that, if we don't win it, it's going to be difficult, because when we lose, this is painful." "But, again, I am optimistic as a person. So hopefully we're going to do it. And also if it's going to validate what we are doing."
A long weekend of Premier Sports Cup action is in prospect and, for some, there is more than just a semi-final place at stake. Rangers head coach Russell Martin, in particular, and Aberdeen counterpart Jimmy Thelin both desperately need a change in fortunes. And Celtic's hierarchy would find themselves facing renewed criticism should Brendan Rodgers' holders and Scottish Premiership leaders slip up against second-tier Partick Thistle. Here's what to look out for over the next three days.
During a break in play after Jordan Obita's red card, Elie Youan proceeds to show off his keepie-uppie skills at the opposite end of the pitch. A moment that would be lambasted by John McGinn, Michael Stewart and Marvin Bartley, the former Hibs trio suggested it typified a care-free attitude in David Gray's side, who went on to capitulate in a 4-1 defeat at Dens Park.
We're disappointed with the result - I'm not going to try and diminish the performance and the disappointment - because we set ourselves up to try and be a good cup team this season. We lost to a team who finished above us last year, on penalties. We were the better team for 75 minutes, I felt. I'm disappointed we didn't forced the issue and get the winning goal before we got to penalties.
