NYCFC, to win it is essential to have the right mentality

Ronny Deila stressed the need for his roster to have strength and depth in all areas.

The main reasons for this were twofold. First, he allowed the manager to have options when the tough season of an MLS season put a strain on the team; whether it is an injury, suspension or fatigue. Second, while a player's drive and motivation can take them far, the overall dynamic improves when healthy competition between players defines who will take the starting place.

Proof of this came Wednesday night when Deila made nine changes to the starting XI and nonetheless emerged at ease 3-1 in the Lamar Hunt US Open Cup. Many from that group strongly argued that they were named to the squad for face Columbus this weekend, and the consequence of that will see a team against Columbus eager to impress.

The NYCFC mentality has been central to their success under Deila, and if they win this weekend, they will once again have played a big part in the process.