Dr Ian Cookson on the role of a psychologist in an amputee football national team
- edwardperry33
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read

Writes: Edward Perry
While football fans will be aware of psychologists becoming an integral part of their favourite teams, many may not know what that role encompasses in the background.
The EAFA spoke to Dr Ian Cookson, the Psychologist for the Men’s National Team, to shine a light on his work with the squad.
It’s a conversation that Ian is motivated in having to spread awareness. “There’s always some scepticism about psychology. I think it’s my responsibility to educate and open the door for people to engage with what I do.”
Specifically on his role in the team, Ian elaborates. “In short, I’m there to support staff and players to help them improve the psychological aspects of their role.
“For players it might be around how we develop their communication as a group, while for staff it might be around feedback and checking learning within the group.”
The work Ian does is also led by the individuals within the group. “There’s 1 to 1 work which depends on what the staff or player wants to discuss.”
Dr Cookson joined The EAFA in 2023, as preparations were underway for last year’s European Championships within a well-established squad and staffing group, “where the psychological principles had already been developed.
“I felt my role was more to observe and add bits and pieces here and there rather than trying to implement anything new which would possibly disrupt the preparations.”

But 2025 has brought about new management and coaching staff for the Men’s National Team, led by Head Coach Gary Marheineke.
As England look ahead to their defence of the Nations League next month, there has been a big period of change, which Ian has been keen to facilitate.
“Gary has brought an exciting new style to how we play. Adapting to that change has been a steep but beneficial learning curve,” he notes. “Back in January we talked about the inevitability of change and embracing a period where it would look very different.
“I think the players have tried to do that, to learn a new set of ideas and embrace that growth, which is one of our core values.”
Within this period of change, Ian’s role has included creating space to reflect on these adaptations.
“I’ve tried to be someone who supports the staff and players in ensuring they are comfortable in their roles and feel comfortable raising issues and asking questions.”
Questioned on how his time and role will look within the Nations League weekend, Dr Cookson’s tournament experience means he knows to remain flexible and be led by the needs of the travelling group.
“What I’m trying to do is offer staff and players the opportunity to discuss how they can be their best. That will differ between individuals, so it’s really down to them in terms of how I can help during the Nations League.”
When asked to look back at his time with The EAFA so far, Ian shows immense pride.
“I don’t think I’m exaggerating if I say it’s one of the best experiences I’ve had in my life.
“I retrained as a sport and exercise psychologist as a mature student. My love of sport, and football in particular, has meant I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with this team.
“Walking on to the pitch at the Amp Futbol Cup with the group of staff and players for the awards ceremony was an incredible feeling, even though we’d struggled in terms of the games.
“It’s that feeling of being involved in sport at international level with a group of staff and players that give everything.”

Though on the eve of a major tournament, Ian stresses there’s always more work to be done as the England Men’s National Team continues their journey.
“I really feel like I’ve only scratched the surface of what we can achieve and what I can offer to the group and the charity more widely.
“We can do so much more and that might involve some change from everyone, experiencing some challenges and some discomfort.
“But building our relationships as a family can only mean that we continue to support each other to grow further.”
And Ian feels the support within The EAFA to empower him to do his important work.
“I do want to say thanks to Gary who I think values what I do. I have a really strong relationship with him, which means that door is already open.
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