T&T’s Senior Men’s team arrived in Wrexham yesterday morning and wasted little time before having their first training session on Welsh soil.
Coach Dennis Lawrence put his players through their paces at the Everton Training facility at Finch Farm, a mere 20 minutes drive from the team’s base camp at the DoubleTree hotel. And there was good news for him with most of his players available with the exception of Deportivo Saprissa defender Aubrey David who arrived later in the evening.
Lawrence’s session was a lively one on wet conditions as rain fell for most it. It, however, didn’t dampen the mood by skipper Khaleem Hyland and his teammates and the technical staff as Lawrence, a former Everton assistant coach was warmly welcomed by his ex-staff members.
Club secretary and director of football operations David Harrison looked on at the session and had some glowing remarks to make about Lawrence.
“We got a call from Dennis to see if we could help out with some facilities for training and obviously we are delighted to see Dennis again and delighted to be able to invite the team to come over and train here again,” Harrison said. “Dennis was a really well-respected member of staff with Roberto Martinez team here and everyone is delighted to see him back today."
He added “Occasionally, we tend to have a lot off of European teams come here if they are playing over at Anfield, Champions League or Europa league games. We tend to let them use our facilities the day before a game."
When asked where his heart lies for Wednesday’s clash at The Racecourse, Harrison said- “It’s got to be with Dennis really. It’s a big game for Dennis and a real test for some of the players, but I’m sure they will be able to step to the plate. It’s a real coaching challenge for Dennis as well."
According to Hyland- “It’s been a great start for us even though it’s a bit cold and rainy today, but this is typical European weather. The facilities were great and hopefully, we can continue to focus on the job. Since I have been on the national team, the mood has always been great. It’s been, one love and one family. We are just looking to work hard on and off the pitch as we look ahead to having a strong performance on Wednesday."
“We have to give respect to Wales with the world-class players they have, but we cannot show too much respect. Football is a game won on the day and who capitalises on their chances will be the winner. Hopefully, we can stick to our game plan and complete our job,” the T&T captain said.
The T&T team will train at the Racecourse again today ahead of a match that is expected to be sold out affair.