Science has always played its part to decipher and provide the players with valuable information to help them excel on the field. The Indian National Team is no stranger in using Sports Science and has made valuable additions in the form of Nicos Zenious, Sports Rehabilitation Physiotherapist and Nicholas de-Long, a UEFA A License Coach, Physical Trainer and a qualified team leader.

Nicos has worked for more than 30 years as a specialist in sports rehabilitation including his stint in the National Team of Cyprus. Nicos is also responsible for the United Nation’s rehabilitation programmes and physiotherapy in Cyprus. While Nicholas has worked with English club side Portsmouth FC and the Rwanda National Team.

“There is always a need to exchange ideas and that is how you grow into a better more evolved team”, said Nicos.

“We are here to help the players achieve their optimum level.”

“There can be no perfect team in the world but you can work hard and get closer to perfection as long as there is hunger to develop”, informed Nicholas.

The Indian National Team is currently preparing for their back-to-back clashes against Cambodia on March 22 in an International Friendly before taking on Myanmar on March 28 in the AFC Asian Cup UAE 2019 Qualifiers opener.

“I am positively surprised by the level of professionalism in the Indian squad and their technical ability”, Nicos stated.

“The players have a lot of potential and this team could go on a long way in Asian football.”

Nicholas was impressed by the never-say-die attitude of the Indian players on the pitch and lauding that he said, “They are good players and the effort they put in is incredible. They are physically fit, but more importantly their attitude is absolutely amazing.”

“They want to learn more and more”, he signed off.

Head Coach Stephen Constantine lauded the duo’s presence and said, “It is great to have Nicholas and Nicos here with us. Their expertise will help greatly in our preparation.”

“Nicholas covers a number of area from being an A License UEFA Coach to physical trainer to being a mentor in team building exercises. He add value to us both on and off the pitch.”

“Nicos has vast experience with all athletes at all levels and for sure he will help Gigy (George) to keep our best players on the pitch.”

Constantine further added, “We have a large number of players in the camp and both Danny (Deigan) and Gigy (Geroge) will profit from their expertise, I am sure this will be seen both in the short and long term.”

(Report & Photo courtesy: AIFF Media)