McSheffrey reveals secrets behind return to form

Oct 1 2007 By Colin Tattum, Birmingham Mail

GARY McSheffrey has revealed how a conscious decision to throw off the shackles and go back to what he's best at triggered a welcome return to form.

Blues winger was his old free-spirited, aggressive and direct self throughout Blues unfortunate loss to Manchester United.

He attacked the full-back and threatened goal, rekindling memories of his performances during the first two-thirds of Blues promotion season in the Championship.

"I've been speaking to a couple of people who are close to me [about my game and form] and it was time I started thinking positive again and playing positively again," he reflected.

"I feel I've been concentrating on the defensive side of my game too much which isn't really what I came here for. I'll hold my hand up and say I'm not the best defender in the world but I'll try my hardest for the team.

"It's just about trying to play my own game again and that's the way I enjoy playing and that's the way I benefit the team more so hopefully that's the way I'll continue to try and approach things."

McSheffrey admitted that he was getting down on himself because of his slump.

"I'm probably my worst critic. I really am, but there comes a time when you say you've got to stop beating yourself up about it because at the end of the day it's your job and you've got to switch off when you go home.

"You've just got to start enjoying football again and that's the key really, enjoying it. When you are enjoying it things come naturally and that is what for me on Saturday and hopefully that is a corner turned."

As for breaking his near eight-month league goal drought, McSheffrey said: "A goal's getting closer. At least I had a few shots and was involved in the game more, so it's a step in the right direction for me."