Of course it matters how he plays. He's a footballer; playing football is his job. How he plays can influence the team, the game, and his confidence. What I'm saying is, I'm not so sure he has the mettle to put the weeks events to one side and do the business. If he can, it would be a big confidence boost for him, prove he can focus on the job at hand, and also be a massive two finger salute to all who have given the lad a hard time (eg: MacKenzie etc.).
Having doubts in no way means he doesn't get my support. The guy has just started to turn things around for himself performance wise after a bit of a rough patch, so it would be sad if he lets it all get to him and knock him off track.
I've tried to word this post a few different way, and no matter what, it always reads to me like I'm attacking you on this. Believe me, that's not the case