Updates from day four of the training camp...
It’s safe to say that day four was a lot quieter than Tuesday’s matchday. A 9.30am start allows the players to recuperate after the late night that followed on from the Gibraltar clash.
An ‘activation’ session follows a relaxed workout in the outdoor pool, which sees the squad in very good spirits. You sense that a real togetherness is growing with each day, as the lads get to know each other in the enclosed environment of the training camp.
There’s also a very welcoming atmosphere throughout the backroom staff and squad, and our commercial director, Ken Sharp, who is on the trip with one of our associate directors, Ian Roberts, was involved in a little joke. Not only did he have a wake-up call organised for him at 4.30am, but for every half hour until 6am… The remaining three, Ken informs us with a smile, were cancelled on the spot.
As expected from the battle the night before, the treatment area sees plenty of traffic. Alan Judge is given a massage to help loosen his muscles ahead of Thursday evening’s match, while Gary Liddle, who was withdrawn from the action after being on the receiving end of a dangerous challenge, has his calf treated and wrapped.
Still, he’s in the gym for the afternoon session – an optional workout. Players are each given a separate program, catering to their individual needs, as strength & conditioning coach Nick Ward and physio Becky Knight watch on, offering highly educated guidance where necessary.
The goalkeepers work on jumping and balance, whereas those struggling with injuries focus on strengthening those muscles. The level of preparation is highly impressive, highlighting the cohesion already formed within the new medical team.
Look out for features on the recovery sessions on Magpie Player soon. Also, don’t forget that the Magpies are in action again on Thursday night, when they take on UD Marbella.