Popovic has relentlessly reiterated the Wanderers’ performances have not reflected their seventh position on the table.

Wanderers lock horns with Perth Glory on New Year’s Day at home and the boss insisted there will be no “do or die” attitude.

“I think once you get into that (do or die) approach, you’re in dangerous territory in matches,” Popovic said.

“I don’t think we’ve shown any of that, we just came back from Brisbane and we were down 1-0 against a good team on a fantastic run of form.

“It didn’t look like a team that lacked belief or confidence, we came back into the game (to draw 1-1) and in the end could have won the match.

“So we’re a team that still shows a lot of belief and quality. We’re pleased with the last two away performances.”

Western Sydney and Perth are both on 13 points with the Glory producing inconsistent results this season.

Popovic watched Perth’s 3-3 draw away to City on Tuesday night when they gave away three penalties with only one converted by Bruno Fornaroli.

“They’re constantly in the match, you could argue City missed some penalties but every time Perth went forward they looked very dangerous,” he said.

“We know what to expect, what we’re up against, there’s no team you can take lightly, we have to be at our best and if we are I expect us to get the three points.”

And with Kerem Bulut’s release, Popovic wished the 24-year-old luck.

Thai club Chiangrai United may sign Bulut.

“He’s been given the opportunity to pursue other opportunities, I don’t want to say too much about that, there’s no hard feelings or leaving on bad terms with Kerem,” Popovic said.

“It’s a mutual decision and I certainly wish him all the best.”