FFA negotiates player release for FIFA friendly
FIJI Football Association is still sorting out release of Police duo Tevita Waranivalu and Akuila Mataisuva for the FIFA International friendly in March which will be hosted in the Solomon Islands.
The tournament, which was initially planned for four nations, have turned out to be a friendly match since Tahiti and Vanuatu have pulled out from the tournament and will leave Fiji playing host Solomons in two legs.
Head coach Robert Sherman confirms Fiji FA is having talks with Fiji police for the duo’s release and he wishes not to comment any further on the issue.
“There has been some dialogue with the police and so I’m not fully aware of the fact, so I don’t want to comment on that, but I think it has been productive,” Sherman said.
While coach Sherman wants to make his team combination right, the former businessman also understands in running the business losing key staff is a loss to the company.
“Ultimately, you know, we must be very appreciative of all the employees because without their support you know, it would be a real struggle. So, you know, I personally I’ve run the business myself in the past and know what it’s like when you lose key staff,” he added.
Overseas players which include the national captain will arrive in the country on March 8 while Zoheb Khan will not be available because of work commitments.
Coach Sherman emphasises the need for strategic training, advocating for intense sessions at specific times, balanced with proper recovery to avoid injuries.
“Well, we have a specific program. I think one of the challenges is that, you know, there’s a perception that you need to train hard every day. And that’s not true.
“You need to train hard, very hard at a specific time, and then have the right amount of recovery, so that you can train hard again, and then you improve.
“So given the match to super training component, players need recovery process post game, it’s really diet, the hydration, some level of massage and ice baths. Then there’s a slow buildup in terms of recovery from training, so you don’t go straight back into a hard session,” Sherman added.
Sherman also shed light on the team’s mental preparation, focusing on clarity of roles and discipline during matches.
The coach acknowledges the competitive spirit of the players, emphasising the importance of educating them on tackling techniques to prevent unnecessary fouls.
Sherman also highlighted on the team’s culture, recently the team has been talking about team’s cultural dynamics, emphasising the importance of respect, honesty, discipline, and accountability.
Sherman commends the positive team culture and expresses confidence in taking it to the next level.