I think it does matter to be honest. A large part of professional football is psychological and when Cook claims to be 'in awe' of a mid-table side, I don't think it sends out a good message to the players in terms of helping them to win the mental battle. It suggests an inferiority complex, and gives the impression that we're not equal to them, and would be lucky to get anything from the game. This is not conducive to the confidence needed to win games in this league and I feel it must have an effect on the players.
I honestly wasn't trying to beat the manager up - I genuinely want him to do well and have tried to remain positive throughout the last few months. It obviously hasn't been easy for Cook with key players injured, a limited budget relative to other teams in this league, etc and I think everyone appreciates that. I don't think anyone on here could honestly say they want him to fail. All I was saying is that some of his comments about the opposition are both untrue and overly complimentary, and are developing into a loser's mentality that may have an effect on the players. I appreciate your positivity, but there is a time for criticism and a time for praise. I'd like to think I give praise when it's due, but if you can't speak up when you feel something's wrong then, as others have mentioned, what is the point of this forum?