England manager Roy Hodgson will consider using a psychologist at the World Cup in Brazil to ensure players are better prepared for penalties. Six of the last 10 major tournaments England have qualified for have ended in defeat via spot-kicks. “We have some confident penalty-takers, but others less confident,” Hodgson told Sky Sports. “It’s how we get to them. We need to know they are as well prepared as they can be.” Hodgson, who was in charge when England were beaten on penalties by Italy at Euro 2012, believes a professional sports psychologist could help his players handle the pressure of a shootout.
“It will be about their character, their confidence and their ability to block out the next morning’s headlines,” he added. “If a psychologist can find a way to block that out, then we’d be very, very happy.” Hodgson has also asked British cycling chief Sir Dave Brailsford to talk to his players before the World Cup gets under way on 12 June.
“One forgets sometimes how important these tournaments are and what big occasions they are,” said Hodgson. “You don’t get that many shots at it and you have a lot of time to regret if you don’t give it your best shot. “I bet the world is full of players who reflect back on tournaments they have had and have said ‘I wish had done a bit more, I wish I had concentrated a bit more, I wish I had known then what I know now’. “Maybe Brailsford can put a few thoughts in their head.” (From: http://m.bbc.com/sport/football/26332893)
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