After seven training sessions capped by two friendlies, the players of 1. FC Union could enjoy a day off this Sunday. Some of the other Unioner, however, can't stay still for that long.

A well deserved rest

In the morning you could look high and low, far and wide for any players, for any signs of any players, they weren't even to be found on the Campoamor golf course. It was a designated day off. They could sleep in. And in that rarest of occasions when looking at the tightly regimented lives of footballers, even lunch at 1pm was optional today. 

However, there were appointments for many to be kept. Active regeneration, it's called. Almost all of them had time with the team of physios. After a strenuous week, this was a matter of course anyway, there were enough aching muscles to go around. A visit to the masseuse was pleasant for some, as it was painful for others, but it was important for all.

Staying active

But professional athletes can't switch off that easily, they didn't get where they are today by sitting around all day. Rani Khedira, for example, was seen playing a round of paddle tennis with the coaching team. Mind you, Kevin Möhwald and Kevin Behrens seemed happy enough to watch, providing a running commentary.

Everyone did however come together for dinner, some things are sacred. But at the end they drifted off in different directions, some celebrating the contract extension of captain Christopher Trimmel, some relaxing watching football in their rooms. But just by the looks on their faces you could see how important days like this can be. 

For the final charge of training starts tomorrow (Monday), with two full training sessions on the penultimate full day of the training camp in Campoamor, to put the final touches to all they've done so far.

Quote of the day: "There's nothing better than NFL Redzone on a Sunday!" An un-named goalkeeper with a grin on his face.