It seems that the Lads have been indulging in some alternative therapy in an attempt to stay lean, mean, fit and focused for a promotion push.
Skipper Jason McAteer revealed today that they’ve been getting into Pilates – a body conditioning exercise regime focused on improving flexibility and strength for the total body without building bulk, that is supposed to leave you “refreshed and alert with a feeling of physical and mental well-being”.
The club has hired Emma Newham, a Pilates instructor, who works with the first team squad twice a week. McAteer acknowledged the physical benefits of the regime….but also seems to have an ulterior motive for his enthusiasm – he said “Pilates is big in football at the minute, it’s like a stretching thing, a mental thing, building up your core strength and so on. Football clubs are very superstitious, so while we’re doing well, she’ll stay! The girl is also really pretty, so that’s why I think we’re doing it.
“We’ve brought her in to help our physio, Pete Friar, who’s young and has grown up the new school way, although he does take on old school things as well.”
And “Trigger” revealed that if he had a choice, he’d take promotion this season over an FA Cup winner’s medal: “Without any doubt, getting promotion rather than winning an FA Cup winner’s medal is my priority – although it would be nice to get to the final and get our backsides kicked by Arsenal.
“I’m a great lover of proving people wrong and sticking two fingers up to the knockers, those who don’t believe we can do it and don’t want us to. That’s what I really want to do this season.
“This club has been kicked in the teeth far too much.”
