Harry Wilson on how England prepare for major tournaments off the pitch

Image: Three Lines Photography

Writes: Edward Perry

Preparations for a major tournament like the upcoming EAFF Nations League don’t just take place on the pitch.

As The England Men’s National Team get ready to fly to Turkey, The EAFA spoke to Harry Wilson, the Lead Sport Science and Strength & Conditioning Coach, about the work that goes on behind the scenes to prepare the team while they’re away from training camps.

“In short, I provide players with remote training programmes to ensure they are consistently getting what they need to perform at their best when they reach major tournaments,” Harry tells The EAFA website.

“This is supported by our nutritionist, Natalia, who makes sure players are fuelled correctly and in the right shape to perform. We also have Milly and Aidan, who work closely with the goalkeepers to keep them sharp and ready.”

Image: Three Lines Photopgraphy

As training camps occur monthly, the remote programmes designed by Harry and his team are there to support the squad and optimise the progress that players make in-between camps, while also creating accountability for that progress.

“Away from camp, we’ve built a robust and supportive system to help players thrive and develop individually.

“Every Monday, we check in with each player to review the previous week and adjust the upcoming week’s plan to fit their needs, making sure they can maximise their potential.

“Their programmes are delivered through an app, which allows us to track progress in the gym and on their crutch runs. The app also gives us data on their wellness, including energy levels — an essential factor in keeping them fresh and ready for the Nations League.”

In the lead up to defending their title, England faced tough opposition at the Amp Futbol Cup. These tests included facing Turkey and Poland, giving an invaluable insight on areas to be worked on before the Nations League.

“We learnt a lot from the Amp Futbol Cup about where our players currently stand compared to the best. That experience has massively driven competition and hard work outside of camp.

“The boys have been putting in a huge effort, completing multiple conditioning sessions each week. Some players have even hit milestones like running 5km in under 30 minutes!

“Week by week they’re improving, building confidence in their fitness and speed. They’re looking sharp and ready to defend our Nations League title.”

Image: Three Lines Photography

Harry Wilson joined The EAFA in 2023 and talks with pride when looking back over his time aiding the national team, “It’s honestly been incredible.”

“The monthly camps are always a highlight, seeing the players work so hard to represent their country on the international stage. To be able to support a team on an international level has always been a big aspiration of mine.”

While with The EAFA, Wilson has further developed his understanding amputee football and disability sport by working with disabled athletes up close.

“Working in disability sport has been both a challenge and a passion. Every player has different training demands, which is normal. But when you add in the varying levels of mobility from amputations, it makes things even more complex and interesting.”

Add in the further challenge of creating training programmes to fit around the home lives of all involved and you can begin to imagine the commitment it takes from players and staff alike to perform on the biggest stages.

“Players have a genuine desire to improve, despite the challenges of training as international athletes while balancing jobs, family, and personal lives.

“This is why sponsorship is so vital — it gives players more opportunities to train and focus that little bit more on their football.”

England begin their Nations League campaign against Poland on 12^th September, with kick-off at 3pm (UK time). Watch all of England’s fixtures live on EAFF’s YouTube channel.