Constantine backs sports science to Indian clubs

Constantine, who is currently preparing the team for the upcoming 2019 Asian Cup Qualifier match against Laos, is emphasising on physical fitness.

“Not all Indian clubs have an access to a sports scientist. That makes the job of the club coaches all the more harder and it also makes it difficult for the players. Most of the injuries which a player sustains happen some 7-10 days after they have left the national camp. It’s because they train at a much higher level with the national team but when they go back to their clubs the level drops. That’s when they are susceptible to injuries.

Talking further on the importance of sports science, the Briton said, “Bengaluru FC are a good example. The boys are regular at the gym doing the extra bit, there is a sports science coach and physically, they are in a better condition (than most others) when they report to the camp. There are quite many new faces in the national camp.

“We didn’t have much choice. Off the 26 whom we selected, 11 are busy with their respective clubs for the AFC Cup commitments. Hence, we decided to bring in some players whom we have been tracking to see how they train and respond and understand their attitude.