Dwight Yorke: Cats can’t mention the ‘R’ word

Apr 11 2009 by Stuart Rayner, The Journal

Having seen his old club wobbling in their last four games, winning just once thanks to an injury-time winner from teenage substitute Federico Macheda, Yorke appreciates today could have a huge bearing on the other end of the table too. In these circumstances, he believes playing at home may not be an advantage.

“At both ends of the spectrum it’s very difficult,” Yorke said. “United are going for the title and we are trying to survive. That’s when the fear factor comes in, especially playing at home.

“When you are away the pressure is not so bad. You are expected to play well and do well in front of your crowd. If not, the crowd tend to have their say. You have to hold your nerve.

“Man United aren’t firing on all cylinders. They are going through a phase and they are very beatable at the moment. They might see it as a good opportunity to use some young players because we are in a very low period of our season.

“If they do, let’s hope we are up for it and capitalise on it.”

Yorke admits the thought of playing against Manchester United – perhaps for the last time – still gets his juices flowing.

“They’re the team that everyone outside of Man United themselves looks forward to playing.

“I’m no exception, even at my age and experience.”

Yorke’s experience in midfield could be even more important with a major doubt over captain Dean Whitehead, who has a calf injury.

“At this stage he’s no more than 50-50,” revealed manager Ricky Sbragia. “He took a knock on his calf early on in the game at West Ham United last weekend, but Deano being Deano, he managed to play through it.”

Teemu Tainio is in contention, however. The Finn has not played since February because of a knee injury.