The worst thing you can do when things are going well is believe that this is the new normal.

Last weekend the Dons secured a comprehensive win over Notts County, rising (briefly) into the play-off spots.

In the aftermath, Neal Ardley talked up his squad’s performance, praising them for their incising attacking play and their determination.

He went on to say that his players should go into every game without fear, confident that they can take down anyone.

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I completely understand why he would tell his team that, and why he would make such a public comment. But, respectfully, I disagree.

An inability to feel pain is not the same as invincibility. Indeed, you’re more likely to hurt yourself by not having access to a valuable warning system when danger is present.

A lack of anger is not the same as virtuousness. Indeed, there are injustices in the world which demand an angry response.

And, of course, a lack of fear is not the same as bravery.

Not having fear means you don’t take your opposition seriously. It means you don’t have an adequate appreciation of the stakes.

It leads you to believe that you can’t possibly lose.

If Wimbledon are to secure a playoff spot, much less promotion, they will need to be brave rather than fearless.

Bravery is being afraid and pushing forward anyway.

This squad should absolutely fear losing. They should fear missing out on a huge opportunity for promotion. They should fear losing their place in the team. These things should push them on. Remind them what is at stake.

Wimbledon should be consumed with fear. And then they need to go and win anyway.