The team took their first day off at this camp yesterday and recharged their spirits before entering the second half of the camp. The following day, they had two training sessions in the morning and afternoon after resting their bodies. They will increase their training volume to improve their condition and accelerate the penetration of tactics.
The morning started with a menu to bring out agility after training with running and tubes, and in positional games, we went fiercely into the ball while increasing intensity on both offense and defense.
Finally, we conducted finishing work in front of the goal. We placed a dummy representing the opponent and confirmed the build-up from the defense line to the goal and the finishing process with all players.
After the morning practice, we conducted an interview with players Kimoto and Watanabe.
Please also read it on FANZONE.
In the afternoon practice, we conducted various passing exercises after training to improve physical condition.
We practiced a training to improve finishing in front of goal, where we aimed for the opponent's back from the side of the defense line while connecting the ball and scored with a cross.
We could see players talking in detail with those in similar positions even after practice, in order to have a common understanding among everyone.
Tomorrow will be the third training match of the Okinawa camp.
It is a great opportunity to test the results built up in practice. We will face a J.League team for the first time this season.
After practice, the players, including player Nagatomo, went outside of the field and mowed the lawn to create a message saying "Bravo!!!" Thank you very much.
Nagatomo was also surprised and had the best smile. If you come to the venue, please find it from the lawn outside the stadium.
On the 11th day of camp, we interviewed Hotaka NAKAMURA.
Q, I often stay and train until the end after practice.
A, Since turning professional, there hasn’t been a year when I haven’t been injured, and getting injured lowers my evaluation the most and also reduces my performance. Therefore, this season, I truly want to fight through the entire year without injury, and I believe it is something I must do to the fullest.
Q, If you continue through the second camp and enter the season, it seems like you can build a body that won’t get injured.
A, This season, I have been working closely with the trainer to fine-tune my off-season training methods, focusing especially on muscle strengthening. In that sense, I believe my current physical condition is good and I am well-prepared. Since practice matches will continue from now on, I hope to proceed while confirming my condition and controlling the load.
Q, I don't think there was any hesitation in your play during the first practice match.
A, This season, the coach has told me that he wants the fullbacks to be more offensive, and personally, I also want to be involved in scoring and assisting. In that sense, I am conscious of who will take the open spaces as I play. I think this is a perfect opportunity to confirm the formations and positioning, so for now, I want to focus on quantity over quality to let it sink into my body, repeating trial and error.
Q, how was the feeling when Kumada scored from a cross during today's practice on the far side?
A, This season, it’s not only about crosses delivered from deep positions, but also when I move wide, I believe I have to earn the trust that if the ball comes to Hodaka, a great cross will definitely be delivered. To reach the next level, I think it’s necessary to have my own style. If I can supply good balls, there are excellent players in the center, so all the fullbacks need to be conscious of that and work together. If good crosses go in, I believe Kumada will finish them off (laughs).
Q, What specific training did you do during the off-season?
A, I lacked sufficient joint-related muscle strength around my hips, which caused issues and led to a muscle strain last season. Because of that, those areas became the cause of my injuries. This year, since I had time, I received a very thorough training program focused on strengthening those muscles and have been working hard on it.
Q: Do young players joining the team also provide motivation?
A, I quickly reached the age of 26 and am no longer considered a young player, so I feel a strong sense of urgency. I can’t use my age as an excuse, so I have to take responsibility myself. In that sense, it’s important to play proactively and confidently, showing that attitude to the younger players. Also, there is a lot I can learn from the younger players; even when talking with them, their way of thinking and ideas that only youth can bring are stimulating. Since I’m 26, I also think I need to play a role in connecting the older and younger players. Right now, the relationships between people are really enjoyable, and I hope to talk with and get to know even more players.
Q: Who is the most interesting player from your perspective?
A: There are many, including player Arai and Terayama. Everyone is truly unique, and there isn’t a single person who is the same, so interacting with them is rewarding. It’s fun.
