Panaji, Nov 19: Liverpool legend and SC East Bengal head coach Robbie Fowler has added forensic psychologist Nicola McCalliog to team’s support staff, just a week ahead of their high pressure derby against arch-rivals ATK Mohun Bagan.
Nicola’s addition makes it an eight-member strong backroom staff for Fowler who also has a set piece coach — Terence McPhillips — a first for an Indian club. Nicola is based in the UK and conducts virtual sessions for the team and is expected to join the side, should they make the playoffs.
The clash against Mojun Bagan will kick-start the season for the Fowler-coached side. “I am working with the players to understand who they are, their story so far and what drives and motivates them. I support the manager and the staff in how to get the best out of the player on and off the pitch,” Nicola, who has worked in psychology for over 15 years in forensics for the government and in elite sport, said. As a trained hostage negotiator, Nicola will be using military techniques around mental preparation, breathing, visualisation and resilience. Nicola is already impressed with the 30-member red-and-gold brigade and she hoped the team would make history by winning the ISL. “I can see and feel an unbreakable team spirit building. It’s all about making history and winning the ISL.” she added. (PTI)
