AFC Wimbledon midfielder Harry Pell says it is time to sort out the men from the boys as the League Two relegation fight enters the final phase.
The 21-year-old, signed from Hereford United in January, has become a fans’ favourite after his energy and goals helped kick-start the Dons survival fight.
Since January, the improvement in Dons’ form propelled them to 48 points, and five points clear of the drop zone.
However, three consecutive 1-0 defeats has dragged them back to within two points of the League Two trapdoor.
So now, according to Pell, is the time to stand up and be counted.
“If I said confidence in the dressing room was high I would be lying, but this is what sorts out the men from the boys,” he said.
“Dealing with this kind of pressure is what being a professional footballer is all about.
Goal man: Harry Pell celebrates his first goal for the club in the 1-1 draw with Plymouth Argyle
“We are still positive albeit disappointed with the way the last three games have gone.”
He added: “But every player knows what we’re capable of doing, we know that because of our good form at the beginning of the year.
“We’ve had many discussions knowing it could go down to the last day, and we’ve had opportunities to things to bed and not taken them.
“But I am confident we will get what we need from these last games.”
Pell insists the pressure of the League Two run-in, which continues with the visit of Exeter City tomorrow, is good for his soul.
He said: “When you’re under pressure, you find out what you are like as a person and I find it always brings the best out of me.
“Mentally we need to be strong, and if you cannot deal with that then there is something wrong.”
He added: “When you go out there on a Saturday, it’s 90 minutes where you are blessed to be on the pitch in front of 5,000 people.
“And I have really enjoyed my time here, working with great players at this level such as Gary [Alexander] and Jack [Midson].
“It’s also great to have the gaffers Neal [Ardley] and Neil [Cox].
Some to aspire to: Harry Pell has enjoyed playing alongside the likes of Jack Midson
“They are people who have done it at the top level and you have to respect that.
“We know they will lead us out and we will come back stronger for the exeprience.”
Pell, who has turned out for Bristol Rovers and Cambridge United, has moved back home to Essex after his transfer from Hereford.
He said: “Being at home makes life easer so I am happy.
“But I will be a lot happier when we’ve stayed up.”
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