McCarthy backs his youngsters

McCarthy says there is no margin for error as they face Albion in a season-shaping double header – but is adamant that he has total faith in his players.

The Molineux chief reckons Wolves are entering the contest in their best form of the season, and thinks that should give them a great shot at booking their Wembley place.

"There is no hiding place in any of the games, but we know you can't recover from this. We've got two games to get to the final and that is the simple fact.

"But why should I worry? I'm going into the play-offs with a good team who are playing well and I know they will give me everything. They are as honest as any bunch of players that I have ever had and I trust them.

"Our form has been good and we've created lots of chances. Going forward we've been excellent and our football is good too.

"That doesn't guarantee us to win it but it gives us a much better chance than if we weren't."

McCarthy has braced his side for their biggest test of the season – warning them they will need to produce 180 minutes at their "optimum" to clinch Black Country derby day glory.

Wolves are in the middle of a two-day break from the rigours of preparing for the first leg on Sunday.

"We will need to be at our absolute optimum both physically and mentally because we're playing a good side and it is two games in quick succession. It will take it out of them so that is the reason for giving them two days rest before coming back to work tomorrow.

"There is no issue with fitness from my players."

* Wolves have sold more than 22,000 tickets for the Molineux leg of Black Country showdown.

Around 1,917 fans with loyalty points can book tickets today and the club are urging them to spread their calls to take advantage of the ticket office's extended opening hours.

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