Brisbane Roar’s new and improved pre-season schedule has been given the thumbs up by midfield supremo Matt McKay.
Having devised an advanced pre-season program, Roar coaching staff are hoping to steal an edge on their Hyundai A-league rivals.
Finishing the second session after the off-season lay-off, McKay said he was delighted to back on the field and training with the squad.
“It-s good to be back and everything is running smoothly,” the 27 year-old said.
“We-ve started training at a slightly lower level … trying to hold yourself back and make sure your body is right for the first couple of week.
“(But) everyone has come back in pretty good nick.”
Despite missing the Roar-s pre-season last year, McKay said he could already notice the difference between this season-s program and previous schedules.
“I think (the coaching staff) are going with a different ethos this season,” he said.
“We are straight onto the ball … integrating the conditioning side with the ball.
“I-m happy with that, it gives me a number of touches on the ball and will get us ready for the first round.”
The new program is not the only addition to the Roar-s pre-season, with off-season signings Michael Theoklitos, Andrew Redmayne and Shane Stefanutto quickly settling into their new home.
Goalkeepers Theoklitos and Redmayne have begun working with ‘keeping coach Fernando vas Alves, while Stefanutto continues his recovery from injury away from the squad.
McKay said he was looking forward to welcoming the clubs other recruits – Erik Paartalu, Matt Smith and Costa Barbarouses – and begin building a strong team harmony.
