Pre-season training and strategies

[El Payaso]

@Cloud9 has often mentioned a successful pre-season as an important factor later on in the season. I would be interested in learning more about pre-season approaches that define a successful pre-season.

I haven't personally paid a lot if attention to these. I usually start with a heavy early training schedule and move on towards medium load towards the end. I also usually play 5-6 friendlies against interesting opponents to get the players match fit. 

[EnigMattic1]

I've seen a few different approaches. One I've seen was the first 2 weeks with no games, just focusing on fitness and then games every Wednesday and Saturday.

I can't say how effective that is though as I just go for one game a week except when on a training camp when I play twice a week.