Paul Izzo says it will take a collective effort to snap a three-match losing streak, starting with a crucial clash with Newcastle Jets on Sunday.
The Reds take on the Jets, a side that has not lost under new boss Carl Robinson.
Izzo, a Childhood Cancer Association Ambassador, spoke to the media about the Move it March campaign which encourages students and staff to be active for 20 minutes a day for 20 days outside of school hours.
“Obviously we’re here as part of a good initiative,” Izzo said at a press conference at Immanuel Primary School to help promote Childhood Cancer Association’s important program.
“Being active for 20 minutes a day for 20 days, it’s a good initiative to get out there and be active and get moving and get outdoors.”
The 25-year-old goalkeeper admitted after a tough loss against Western United that the morale was understandably rather subdued.
“The mood has been very down, obviously extremely disappointed with how things have gone the past three or four weeks,” he explained.
“It’s been nothing short of, honestly embarrassing I guess, particularly being a local boy it does sting that bit more getting results like that.
“Representing the town that you were brought up in and raised, so it does sting a lot, but we’ve got a really good group we’ve been through similar moments this season I guess.
“We’ve always come through, so we’re looking to replicate that and push through and get things a bit more positive.”
Izzo said this weekend’s game against the Jets is of huge significance with a tricky upcoming schedule.
After next week’s bye, Adelaide have away trips to Melbourne City and Wellington Phoenix before two home encounters against Sydney FC and Perth Glory.
Izzo said a strong mindset is the only way of getting their season back on track.
“It always starts with the mentality,” he said, with the Reds outside of the top six due to an inferior goal difference.
“It’s all got to be a collective effort from every player in the squad.
“It’s not the people that are even starting as well, it’s got to be the young boys and the players out of the squad pushing everyone and that’s how you build a strong competitiveness and that’s where you get the good mentality from.”
Adelaide United host Newcastle Jets in Round 23 of the Hyundai A-League 2019/20 season on Sunday 15 March at Coopers Stadium. Kick-off is at 5.50pm ACDT. Gates open at 4.50pm. Live and Exclusive on Fox Sports, ABC, Kayo Sports and the MyFootball Live App.
