adminJoel Latibeaudiere has urged Coventry City to remain focused and take their promotion push “one step at a time” as they edge closer to a return to the Premier League.
A hard-fought 0-0 draw against Hull City at the MKM Stadium on Easter Monday leaves the Sky Blues just four points shy of securing promotion. Coventry could seal their top-flight return as early as this weekend when they face Sheffield Wednesday.
Promotion will be confirmed if Coventry claim victory and both Middlesbrough and Millwall fail to win their respective fixtures. However, if either of those sides pick up maximum points, Coventry may need to wait a little longer—although a win would leave them all but guaranteed a place in next season’s Premier League.
Despite the excitement building, Latibeaudiere insists the squad remains grounded as they close in on a first top-flight appearance in 25 years.
“It was a tough game and a hard-earned point,” he said. “We expected a challenge, especially given Hull’s situation.
“Both sides started with intensity. We had to weather their early pressure, but we handled it well and eventually grew into the game. Going forward, we just needed to be a bit sharper.
“As a defender, keeping a clean sheet feels just as good as scoring, so we’re pleased with that.”
The defender emphasized the team’s steady approach throughout the campaign.
“Our mindset has always been to take things one game at a time. That’s what’s got us this far.
“The manager and coaching staff have done a great job keeping everyone focused and working hard. The squad is fully committed to winning as many games as possible and finishing the season strongly.”
Latibeaudiere missed Coventry’s Good Friday win over Derby County after returning late from international duty with Jamaica.
His hopes of reaching this summer’s FIFA World Cup were dashed following a narrow 1-0 defeat to DR Congo after extra time in the inter-confederation play-offs.
However, the defender backed manager Frank Lampard’s decision to rest him upon his return.
“The manager called me the night I got back and explained his thinking,” Latibeaudiere revealed.
“I agreed with him—it was about managing my fitness. He made the right call, although I was ready if needed.
“We had a good conversation, and I understood his decision completely.”
Coventry now turn their attention to Saturday’s clash against already-relegated Sheffield Wednesday at the Coventry Building Society Arena, where kick-off is scheduled for 12:30pm.
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