Image Credit: Kerala Blasters FC/Twitter

Kerala Blasters FC has announced that the club will kick off its pre-season preparations on the 30th of July, ahead of the 2021-22 Hero Indian Super League (Hero ISL) season.

Head coach Ivan Vukomanovic, the coaching staff and the players will arrive in Kochi to commence the first-leg of their pre-season before flying abroad to complete the rest of their training. The month-long training camp will allow the players to complete their vaccinations and medical checks before turning the focus on physical conditioning.

Vukomanovic is set to give the first-team exposure to at least 6 academy players, 4 of whom hail from Kerala during their pre-season schedule. Reserve team players Sachin Suresh, Sreekuttan VS, Shahajahas Thekkan, Bijoy V, Sukham Yoihenba Meitei, and Anil Gaonkar are all in line for playing time across the Blasters’ pre-season friendlies.

Kerala Blasters FC’s Sporting Director, Karolis Skinkys commented on the pre-season saying, “I’m really happy to see our players on field at the beginning of August. I’m happy that we are able to give the coaching staff a longer period to work with the players, to get to know them, to prepare physical conditions and to implement main tactical rules. It will be beneficial to begin the training camp now, as all these activities need time. I’m sure players are missing football a lot. We are a young team; players are striving to be the best. Also, good young players from the reserve team will get the chance to be recognized by the first-team coaching staff. I can’t wait to meet everyone in Kochi.”

Head coach Vukomanovic added, “It is very important for the club to have a long pre-season ahead of the start of the season. I want the players to be in their best form before they boot up for their first match of the season. Also, it would be helpful for the players as well as the coaching team to find a rapport well ahead of the season. I am glad that we are having long pre-season plans which I am looking forward to utilizing in the best possible way. I am excited to come to Kochi and meet all the players.”

With foreign recruitment ongoing, newer additions will link up with the squad, as and when they’re signed. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, all players and coaching staff will be following strict COVID-19 protocols and will abide by all the safety precautions without any lapse.