Hammers use app to improve mental performance

First-team goalkeeper coach Xavi Valero and stoppers Lukasz Fabianski, Darren Randolph and David Martin have been meeting regularly via video Zoom calls to discuss their personal training regimes and maintain the special spirit training between them.

In addition to the fitness, strength and conditioning and drills, the keepers are also continuing to use the cognitive NeuroTracker App from home, a 3D visual exercise that trains the brain and enhances mental performance.

“I am in permanent touch with the first-team goalkeepers and they are following their training programmes,” said Valero speaking to WHUFC.com. “In addition to this, they have the NeuroTracker installed on their tablets and phones, providing them with short training sessions to improve their mental agility.

“I have also sent them video footage from the games they have played in which we have already reviewed together, so they can review them independently and identify things they need to work on.

“We are meeting regularly by video call and, while we are all waiting to return to the training pitch at Rush Green when it is safe to do so, this is a good way to work in these unique circumstances.”

“In games, when you are not so busy, you have to keep focused by talking to yourself and the players in front of you and always keeping yourself in a good position. You cannot switch off, and that helps you keep focused.

“The goalkeeper’s position has evolved the most of any on the pitch. Lots of things have changed and improved, and we have to keep up.