Players acclimatising to high altitude: Edwards

DENVER, Colorado, CMC – Veteran winger Carlos Edwards believes the ongoing high-altitude training camp here is already paying dividends, as Trinidad and Tobago continue to build up towards next month’s crucial World Cup qualifier against United States.

The squad arrived here Tuesday night and will use the coming days to prepare for the encounter scheduled for Dick’s Sporting Goods Park on June 8.

Edwards, the most experienced player in the squad at age 38, said the first three sessions at the Prentup Field of the University of Colorado, had been pivotal for the unit.

“So far, so good. The guys have been put through their paces over the last few days,” the former Sunderland and Ipswich Town player said Friday.

“It’s been tough but at the same time it’s work well planned and I think the guys are relishing getting acclimatised to the conditions.”

Denver, the scenic, mountainous western United States metropolis, lies 1600 metres above sea level often making breathing difficult for athletes.

Such conditions are expected to make the upcoming qualifier even tougher but Edwards said the camp was already helping players to acclimatise.

“It was a good blow for 45 minutes in the first session. The guys have stuck to what has been put forward to them,” he explained.

“The breathing has become easier as the days have gone along. I felt it a bit in the warm up yesterday (Thursday). The first day was a bit challenging but things have eased up a bit as the days went along.”

The 18-man squad is not the final one for the World Cup qualifier and final changes will be made, especially when the bulk of overseas players arrive closer to game day.

Edwards hailed the cameraderie in the squad, pointing out that every player was united behind the same goal.

“The cohesion in the camp is second to none and this will make the bond a bit stronger,” said the 2006 World Cup star.

“There are a few guys who will have to leave camp and some will join is but everyone is focused on giving their best at the moment.”

T&T will play two warm-up matches against MLS outfit Colorado Rapids. Dwayne Lowe (left) of Sophia threading a pass beyond the outstretched leg of Kennard Simon (centre) of Dave and Celina’s All-Stars, during their elimination matchup at the National Gymnasium in the Xtreme Clean/GT Beer Futsal Championships.