ENGLAND have a few secrets for success at Euro 2024.
While on pitch talent is integral to progressing to the latter stages of the competition, Gareth Southgate is aware that maintaining good spirits and ensuring fast recovery is also vital.
England did exactly that at previous tournaments under Southgate by allowing the players to unwind with various post-match activities.
Spending time in the pool with inflatable unicorns was the most memorable example of that, and although that could return, Southgate's boys opted for an alternative after beating Serbia 1-0.
There have also been changes to nutrition and training, with certain players instructed to carry out unique roles.
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Electric bikes
The players who featured in the Three Lions' opening match of the Euros enjoyed a leisurely bike ride near the Weimarer Spa & Golf Resort - England's base hotel.
As well as being an enjoyable activity for players, the session was carefully planned by the physical performance and nutrition team to aid recovery post-match.
The likes of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham rode KTM and Scott electric bikes, provided by a local cycle shop in Blankenhain and priced at an average of about £3,380 on the shop’s website.
Recovery methods
Cycling is a key recovery method that has been introduced alongside games of American Football and cryotherapy.
The nutritionist team have also brought in pickle juice as a secret to speedy recovery.
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The juice is effective in combating cramp and was used by Kieran Trippier against Serbia.
It contains vinegar, sodium and potassium and triggers a reflex in the mouth that directs a signal to stop muscles from cramping.
It is said to be more effective and act “40 per cent faster than drinking water” and has been used by tennis stars including Carlos Alcaraz and former Arsenal player, Lucas Torreira.
Players pretending to be the opposition
Southgate handed out special roles to two England players ahead of the opening match - Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney.
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Neither had the opportunity to play alongside Kane in training as they were instead tasked with "pretending to be Serbia".
Watkins revealed he took on the role of Dusan Vlahovic with Toney acting as Aleksandar Mitrovic to test out the England defence.
The Aston Villa striker enjoyed the sessions saying:
“We weren’t too bad! Ivan makes a good Mitrovic and I was Vlahovic.”
