“It’s definitely worth developing a routine as it can help you prepare both mentally and physically.
My morning routine depends on what time I have to get up. Manchester City are the only club I’ve been at where the time of the training session changed every day.
It can be 10.30am, 12pm or 1.30pm – it really does vary every day. Every other club I’ve been at, the training sessions have nearly always been 10.30 starts.
If it’s a 10.30am start I will normally get up around 8am and have breakfast. I never have much of an appetite in the morning but I know I need to eat so I force myself.
I will usually have some cereal, fruit, yoghurt and maybe some toast. I like sultana bran with a banana but I’m not a big fan of breakfast.
I’ll then have a shower or sometimes I’ll even take the dog for a walk because it’s nice to get some fresh air in the lungs and get your legs going.
I will usually get to the training ground an hour and a half before the session starts so I can get a massage or do a gym session. Getting to the ground early enough for a warm-up is essential.”
For more football tips see:
Wayne Rooney: Big match preparation
Clint Dempsey: Mental preparation
James Milner: Getting the best out of training
Theo Walcott: Big match preparation
Pele: Big match preparation
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