STOCKPORT boss Sammy McIlroy has laid down a challenge to his beleaguered players: "I know we can turn this around, now show me you feel the same."

County have just one win in their last 14 league games, but McIlroy remains convinced his side can avoid relegation if they have belief in themselves.

"I desperately want this club to stay in this division, the fans want it and now the players have to show that they want it," said McIlroy. "The important thing is we stick together.

"All the players will have to show a lot of courage over the next few weeks and that includes the younger players. They are in the side and they have to take responsibility as well.

"I'm going to be shaking it up a bit for tomorrow's game against Brighton. I think it needs that right now."

McIlroy has been particularly concerned at the number of costly mistakes his side have been making in recent games.

"We have to cut out the basic errors being made by individuals, which have been costing us dear. That was the case at Notts County last Saturday.

"I'd hardly taken my seat and we were a goal down, and then when we fought our way back into the game we gave away a needless penalty and went on to lose 4-1," he said. "That game and the way we responded was the biggest disappointment for me since I've been here.

"But we had a talk about the game the next day, and we'll be having another talk before the game against Brighton tomorrow."

McIlroy is pleased that his rebuilding has so far drawn approving noises from supporters.

"The fans have been magnificent in sticking by me," he added.

"I've had a lot of letters saying they know it's a tough job, and I intend to repay their faith in me and turn this around."

Their support will be vital when Stockport take on play-off chasing Brighton.

Flying

"We have to prove ourselves each time we go out now," McIlroy added. "Brighton may be flying, but we beat them at their place.

"There are 14 games to go for us, which means there are 42 points to play for, so it's definitely possible."

McIlroy has recalled Irish Under-21 international striker Jon Daly from his loan spell at Bury, and is convinced that he can play a part in County's revival.

"We sent Jon away to get games, which he's done and he's come back fresh and sharp. He will go straight into the squad for Brighton. I'm expecting big things from a fresh Jon Daly. But that's true of all the players.

"As well as the players I've brought in, who have definitely improved this team, there are skilful players like Ali Gibb, Andy Welsh and Jim Goodwin, who are going to have to play their part in getting us up the table.

"It was disappointing how some heads dropped at Notts County. That won't be allowed to happen again. I've made it clear that if a player is not having the best of games I won't tolerate him not giving 100 per cent effort.

"There can be no more games like Notts County if we're going to survive. I've been in a relegation battle before with Macclesfield and I know what we need stay up, and that's brave hearts."

Although Brighton are currently in the play-off places their away form has been letting them down in recent weeks.

LAST SEASON: Different divisions

KEY OPPONENT: Trevor Benjamin - main goal threat with Leon Knight missing

PREDICTION: Stockport 1 Brighton 0

• COUNTY supporters are invited to the AGM of the Hatters Independent Supporters Club (HISC) tomorrow at 1pm in the Florist Public House, Shaw Heath. All fans are welcome.

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