How to keep the Welsh player as close to peak condition as humanly possible? That is the question Ronan Kavanagh deals with on a daily basis.
Wales’ journey at Euro 2016 has enthralled the footballing world.
Chris Coleman’s men have stormed to the semi-finals and accounted for Belgium, the world’s number two-ranked side, along the way.
While many have lamented their country’s star names looking less than 100%, Wales look like they can run all day. Their heart and desire was lauded after they beat Belgium 3-1 but their fitness levels were extraordinary.
Take Chris Gunter, for example. The Reading full-back was indefatigable in the Euro quarter final and found the energy to roam up the right wing and whip in an inviting cross for Sam Vokes to finish.
Kavanagh is working with the Wales FA as a sports scientist and, shy away as he might, is getting a lot of credit for his work with the players.
In an interview with Newstalk Breakfast, the Kilkenny native gave an insight into the type of work he is doing with the Welsh team:
“Every morning, we get (the players) to fill out wellness questionnaires. We try and make sure that we cover all the bases. They do saliva tests. Based on that if then if their immune system is up or down, we might hit them with an extra bit of supplementation.”
Looking ahead to Wednesday’s last four date with Portugal, Kavanagh has echoed the positive views of Coleman and his players. He said:
“We’re quite confident. The win against Belgium gives you the confidence, that you can go and beat anyone. Belgium are the top ranked European team in the Fifa Rankings at the moment so you think, ‘Let’s have a go at Portugal’.”
If Wales are to achieve Euro 2016 glory, they’ll need their players to be on top of their game and Kavanagh to be on top of his.
If so, Ireland can claim to have had a small but important say in Wales’ greatest ever footballing achievement.
