Eric Bailly in training.

Bailly: Playing home or away doesn't make a difference

Friday 08 February 2019 15:23

Playing away from home can often be seen as a daunting task for some teams but, for Eric Bailly, it doesn't matter where he and his Manchester United team-mates perform as they currently fear no-one.

Since the Reds began our unbeaten run in December, we have recorded five victories on the road in all competitions. Most of these wins for Solskjaer's side have come at grounds renowned for being potentially difficult, including Wembley, the Emirates Stadium and the King Power Stadium.

However when he spoke ahead of this weekend's visit to Craven Cottage, the Ivorian believes the current air of positivity flowing around the Aon Training Complex will mean that any away-day nerves will not creep in.

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"It’s something that comes directly from the manager’s message," Eric said. "Which is to be positive in everything we do, considering the quality of player that we have. I believe that it’s just the same whether we are playing at home or away, so I reckon that being away from home is really just like we are at home.

"With that mentality we have, I hope it can continue like this until the end of the season."

Craven Cottage was a happy hunting ground during Fulham's previous spell in the top flight. In fact, United have only lost twice in the previous 11 league visits to the ground on the banks of the River Thames.

The last time the Whites hosted the Reds was six years ago. Goals from Antonio Valencia, Robin van Persie and Wayne Rooney ensured a comfortable 3-1 victory. Back then, the hosts were in a fight for Premier League survival, and that looks set to be the case again this season.

One player, in particular, who Bailly has praise for is his fellow centre-back, Victor Lindelof. The Swede has been a regular starter in the heart of United's defence this season and even got his first goal for the club in the 2-2 draw against Burnley at Old Trafford.

"Lindelof is a top player," Eric said. "At first, it was a bit difficult for him but now he has gained in confidence and he is showing everyone just what a quality player he is.

"I’m really happy for him and the way he remained patient up to now. So he really deserves the season he is having currently and I hope he can continue his form to keep the team moving in the right direction, as that is important for us and the whole squad," he added.

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Bailly made his first league start of 2019 last week against Leicester City - his seventh of the campaign thus far. The Ivorian hopes that he can continue to get minutes on the pitch by impressing the coaching staff in training.

"For me, it’s always important to feature and play regularly and, with that, gain in confidence because that is always key for a player," the defender said. "I hope I can fully regain that confidence and put myself in a position to do a job for the team. That’s my wish and I hope that, by working hard and listening to the coaching staff, I’m sure I’ll be back to my confident best and featuring in the team."

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