To save me some typing here's NMT's post fron t'other pforum.
Training started a little disjointed with a new sponsor needing a photo, most of the squad had already made their way over to the training pitch so then had to go back over to the main building to have some photos done, they returned very quickly so not sure of the outcome but I think someone will get a ticking off for the organising.
So into the session, which again was using a pitch outside of the iron curtain. Everyone except for Petrov was involved and looking strong once the early cobwebs were blown away. Robinho seems to be in very good spirits at the moment and looks nailed on to be involved at some point on Saturday.
The usual warm-ups were done which are designed to get the feet and body moving quickly, then over to a drill which involved 3 teams, the middle team were the defenders and the object for all involved was to keep the ball with 3 touches possible but the middle team trying to intercept the ball. I had to leave then, so if there is anything additional to report I'm sure DH will oblige.
So another session tomorrow before the massive game Saturday, the squad seem in good spirits and again we can only report what we see. We will have to see what goes on tomorrow as they are pretty much certain to be behind the iron curtain for most of tomorrow's session.
NMT
That drill NMT mentioned got quite heated at times with real competitive spirit shown from all 3 teams. Really good fun and anyone who gave the ball away got a slagging from his teammates. After that the same groups moved onto attacking/defending routines which were very good in quality. I can't describe exactly what they were working on as I would have to be killed but they were really interesting to watch.
Here's a thought though. If I was to describe a good goal scored or a top bit of defending I wonder if the reaction to the goal would be to criticise the defending and alternatively when the defence stops a goal is that because the striker was too slow or making the wrong run? Just thinking out loud.
Anyway the last part of today was again the same groups playing in a half pitch match where the team that wasn't on the field being used on the sideline to join in if the ball was passed to them. Played at a fast pace with some good stuff and some mistakes but all in all a good session.
As I like to focus on the positives I would echo NMT's comments that Robinho was looking in good nick. Plenty of good play and a few goals celebrated in typical fashion and with a mile wide smile. I thought Stu Taylor was excellent today in the last match part.
A few stayed back for some finishing practice and yet again Garrido showed his prowess with free kicks on the edge of the box. RSC/Bellers/Vlad also having a go and SWP being fed some balls to strike from an inside right position.
Finally a word for two of the fitness coaches in recovery at the moment. Damien who usually leads out on the initial fitness warm ups is recovering form DVT issues and Carlo Sartori has just had a knee op. Best wishes to both for a full speedy recovery. As the coaches fall down though it's close to a full strength squad now. Petrov did come out later for some work and is almost ready again as I think he said himself on the main site. Barry and Toure were back in with the squad today .
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