By David Hobbs
August 8 2005

Manchester United fitness coach Valter di Salvo has revealed how the Red Devils have been getting along in their pre-season fitness course.

The former Lazio fitness coach, renowned for his excellent technique in coaching, has ensured fans that they will see a sharp United side when they kick off their season against Debrecen in the Champions League midweek and Everton in the Premiership next Saturday.

"We've planned a large part of our pre-season around the qualifying match because we know how important it is to everybody.

"I knew Debrecen's fitness levels would be very good because they are currently in the middle of their season. But I believe we are ready for the match and the players are all in good condition both physically and technically.

"This year we divided the pre-season period into three parts," he explained. "The first part was spent in Portugal where the players took part in one training session per day during our week-long stay.

"After a lengthy period of rest over the summer, it's impossible for the players to start intense training immediately because there is a higher risk of them picking up injuries."

David Hobbs - Webmaster
[david@manutdweb.com]