The FA is backing Gareth Southgate’s attempt to improve the mental strength of England’s players by hiring a full-time psychologist. Southgate has been using consultants from Lane4 on an ad hoc basis since becoming England manager last October, but wants a permanent appointment to help him prepare his players for next summer’s World Cup finals in Russia. The FA has begun the process of recruiting a head of team and people development, whose time will be split between St George’s Park and Wembley. The successful candidate will assemble a group of four or five psychologists to support all the England teams. Consultants from Lane4 will continue to be used in the meantime and may be invited to apply for the new roles.

Source: The Times September 05, 2017 22:52 UTC