Panama's Julio Segundo practices a drill during training under the watchful eye of International Academy Coach, Alex Gibson
The six Digicel Kick Start Clinics footballers from Central America completed their second day of training today with Manchester City’s Academy and received high praise from International Academy Coach, Alex Gibson.
Despite torrential rain forcing the team to move inside to one of the Academy’s state-of-the-art indoor astroturf pitches, Tuesday’s first session with Gibson took place with visiting teams from Abu Dhabi and Soweto, followed by Academy Coach and former Manchester City captain, Paul Power, leading the second session of the day.
Speaking about the first training session of the day, Alex Gibbs said: “We kicked off today at the basic level of ball touching technique. Within the first two or three minutes, I was able to understand the standards of each of the players as this was my first time working with them. Once I had established their basic levels, we began working on routines that involved passing, turning, dribbling and control so that the boys would get a better feel for the ball. From there, we moved on to small-sided games and shooting drills – both are areas that need a lot of practice.
“Overall the footballers did very well. Their attitude, application and effort were all excellent and they showed a number of skills which were very good. Although there is lots of room for improvement, what pleased me the most was their attitude - their good manners and behavior were exemplary and this is what we look for in footballers.”
Gibson continued: “All six boys have adjusted very quickly to an English coach and the language barrier doesn’t seem to be a problem. In fact, Dylan Florez from Costa Rica has demonstrated great leadership in assisting with the translation and acting as assistant coach - all great qualities for a future captain.”
The footballers are heading to Manchester’s famous Trafford Centre this evening where they will be hosted by Academy Director, Jim Cassells, and Coach, Alex Gibson, who will give them a tour of the city’s most famous shopping and entertainment venues.
