| Fadhil Yunus |
DPMM FC’s new fitness coach Davis Lindsay underscored the need to address the players’ nutritional needs in a concerted effort to get into optimal condition ahead of the Singapore Premier League season next month.
The club has acquired the services of the British to help improve the squad’s fitness level as they step up their preparations for the Singapore top flight.
“We cover every area especially when we eat, for example breakfast, pre-match and recovery meal,” said Lindsay in an interview with the media recently.
“I’ve seen the games and after 60 minutes, they seemed to go and run out of energy. We need to sort that out, hydration test the player to see if that’s the problem.
“The players have been working hard and they have bought in to what we want to do. Every day, six days a week for training, three sessions some days – there is no hiding that they found it tough but they have not given up.”
Lindsay, who studied at the International Institute of Sports Therapy, added, “I’ve been really impressed with their attitude and we will be a fitter and stronger side this year in the Singapore league for it.”
The fitness coach also said that it is easier for the players when they are playing away matches as they could provide details to the hotel.
“It makes it easier for us when we are away because we can tell the hotel and give them (the hotel) a menu. Each player has got a menu now for what they need for breakfast and recovery meal. They will have electrolytes afterwards and we monitor that.”
The players have been assessed through a series of tests during the early period of training.
Lindsay said, “Basically, initially we came in and assessed the fitness so we do a few tests and see where they are physically, both in endurance and strength. We initially did some tests on them and then we assessed each player individually.
“We looked at their weaknesses, strengths and we tried to adapt the programme.”
When the players first met for training, initial observations found that stamina and endurance were a problem as well as upper body strength and core strength vital in injury prevention.
The Gegar-Gegar men will begin their campaign away against Home United on March 3.