Mick: Let's finish the job

McCarthy has warned his team the hard work of the season will be wiped out by defeat over two legs – but is confident they can recreate their best form for the Clash of the Century.

Wolves were back in training today as the Black Country counts down to the crucial play-off clash.

"What we've done up to now counts for nothing – we have to go out there and prove ourselves all over again," said McCarthy.

"The season that has gone before has absolutely no bearing whatsoever when you get to the play-offs.

"I suppose it is an achievement to get into the play-offs, but it doesn't mean anything in the long run.

"It just gives us another opportunity – that is all. Now it is down to us to go out there and finish the job."

"We've got to play like we did when Birmingham and West Brom came to Molineux – that can be the difference."

Albion bounce into the play-offs on the back of a 7-0 win against Barnsley – but McCarthy doesn't believe that is a bad omen for his side. He reckons Wolves' win at Leicester is equally impressive.

"The fact that they scored seven goals in their last game doesn't bother me one bit," he said.

"Barnsley had achieved what they wanted to achieve the week before and West Brom are such a good side that they can do that to you. They could have put five or six past us in the cup – although it's worth pointing out that the team that played that day wasn't my best side."

Wolves have sold nearly 24,000 tickets for the derby game and are confidently predicting a sell-out for the high-noon showdown. And McCarthy admits that will be a major motivation .

"It adds a lot of spice with it being West Brom," he said. "From my perspective these are the games you want to be involved in – it really is the best feeling you can get as a footballer. Walking out on to the pitch when there is a full house, it's a great feeling."

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