"I don't feel that" - Rob Edwards on freedom and pressure in his Wolves ranks
Rob Edwards does not believe a lack of pressure has helped his side as he motivates his Wolves players to have a strong end to the season.
Wolves were previously fighting against the tag of becoming the worst ever Premier League side and an upturn in form now sees them tracking down 19th-placed Burnley, who sit just three points above them.
Edwards' side were written off as relegation fodder months ago and although they have improved in recent months, sinking to the Championship is still expected.
Playing with more freedom and less pressure is a natural explanation for Wolves' upgraded form, but Edwards rejected that notion and insists the players have continuously been under pressure.
"I don't feel that, I feel like we're putting a good amount of pressure on them to perform, we have to," he said.
"Whatever your motivation is right now, whether it's just the football club and the badge, whether it's yourself, your family, your future, whatever it is, your World Cup, you've got to perform.
"These games in the Premier League, it is different because so many eyes are on you.
"The eyes of the world are watching, you're getting judged constantly so we have to turn up.
"I don't feel like there's any less pressure because of the position we're in."
With seven games remaining this season, Edwards has been able to find some consistency in performances and results, which has led to an improved relationship with the supporters.
Regardless of whether a great escape is possible this season or not, Edwards is keen to build momentum for next season and to do that he needs a good end to the current campaign.
"Continuing to improve," Edwards said when asked what success looks like before the end of the season.
"There's no doubt that we're doing that, so we've got to keep improving, keep giving our best and try and pick up as many points as possible. That is all we can do.
"I think we've definitely done that, I don't think there's any argument about that. The actual results will reflect that as well.
"But the players know this as well. It's really important that as a team, but also as all the individuals, that you step up now and show your best because it's only going to help you.
"Whatever you want next season and beyond, it serves you well to perform and the lads are doing that."
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