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Russell Martin has been tasked with improving the culture around the Leicester City training ground.
As well as gaining promotion back to the Championship, one of Russell Martin’s key remits was to create a hard-working and positive environment at Seagrave.
Whatever you think of Martin tactically, it’s clear that he’s very good at uniting a team and building good habits – which was a crucial factor behind his appointment.
With that said, the BBC have just released an interesting report which digs deeper into what Martin is doing behind the scenes to reset the poor culture at the £100m training ground, which has been labelled a spa and leisure facility by Ipswich chairman Mark Ashton.
Martin is encouraging players to bond and form a good relationship with each other off the pitch, and one of the steps towards that goal is spending time together in the canteen.
Interestingly, the City boss isn’t fining players if they are seen to be on their mobile phones at meal times; instead, he’s opting to punish them by making them run.
The BBC report explains the punishment: “Players – and staff – have to run the length of the pitch and back in 35 seconds three times, with a 35-second break in between.”
Martin is also setting better standards across the training ground, which focuses on respect and good manners.
Earlier this season, the 40-year-old criticised his players for leaving tape and drinks at the swimming pool area, so these sorts of issues are being ironed out.
Ultimately, Martin will be judged by his results, and they are certainly improving, as his side have picked up consecutive victories for the first time this term.
City return to action on Saturday afternoon when they take on promotion-favourites Luton Town at Kenilworth Road.