Narcis Pelach has opened up on how he has changed the training regime at Stoke City since taking charge at the club.
The former Norwich City coach has been in charge in Staffordshire for the past month and has already begun to implement many of his ideals into the squad for his first time managing in England. Both training drills and nutrition have been taken into account, with the Spaniard seeking for his squad to be fitter than they were under his predecessor in Steven Schumacher.
A new approach
Speaking to Stoke-On-Trent Live, Pelach emphasised that he wanted his players to improve their endurance.
“For what we’re trying to do, we need to get better from the fitness point of view. It’s very demanding, I know that. I did it in Spain and the numbers were through the roof. At Huddersfield, we ran the most in 21-22 when we went to Wembley. The style of play was really similar.
“At Norwich, we were one of the sides who were running the most, as were Middlesbrough. I expect Stoke City to be a very energetic side, and I think it’s been clear in these days and these games that the team really goes. We have to look after every detail we can, in terms of food, gym, preparation and the mindset point of view.
“From the technical point of view, and tactically, mentally, physically, it’s very demanding, but it’s how I see the game. It’s how I live life and it’s what I want to see everyday. I don’t want to coach a team that doesn’t represent me, I’m very clear on that. I want to see that energy in every single second of every game.
Results starting to come
It has been a slow start for Pelach since taking charge of The Potters, claiming five points in his opening five games. A large chunk of that came in the 6-1 win over Portsmouth, and are unbeaten since then with two draws.
They welcome Bristol City tonight in a Championship clash, with a win for Stoke elevating them above Liam Manning’s side and potentially up to ninth if results go their way.
Writer’s View
Narcis Pelach is starting to stamp his influence into the Stoke City side he inherited from Steven Schumacher and so far it is looking promising. They completely dominated Portsmouth and did capture a great result in a 1-1 draw against his former side in Norwich City. The youthfulness of the side he has will also allow him to implement his strategy with a set of players that will have the energy to go for as long as he needs them to.
