Chelsea to do away with headers in training to combat dementia
According to The Evening Standard, Chelsea boss Frank Lampard is keen to restrict heading among his players following reports linking it to dementia.
The fact that a number of former players are being diagnosed with the disease has alarmed Lampard. This has led to the Blue boss fearing for the long-term health of his own players.
While he is calling for reform at the youth level. This has not stopped him from reviewing his own processes with Chelsea’s first-team squad.
“I’m certainly considering it in how we train here because of the seriousness of the issue.”
Lampard has called for serious research on the matter. It is critical that Lampard’s words are heeded and a greater focus is given to the impact headers have on players health.
“If there are restrictions and if we are much more careful about how we train in terms of heading balls, I think we should look at it seriously.”
The latest player to be diagnosed with dementia is Manchester United and England legend, Sir Bobby Charlton.
Guidelines released by the FA this year stated that children aged 11 and under will no longer participate in training involving headers.
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While Lampard admits it is difficult to stop players from heading the ball at senior level, the fact that he is seeking to do so at Chelsea is a start. Changes begin with someone and Lampard might as well be the one who brings it about here.
