Backroom staff are just as important as the 11 on the pitch when it comes to a successful football team, and one of those roles is that of the physiotherapist.
Christos Christofides has made the move to Wolves having recently departed Port Vale and has acclimatised well.
“We’ve only just relocated from Manchester, but it’s all done now and I’m settled in,” he says. “This is a big club with a really good reputation and there is a good medical and sports science setup.
“It’s just a great opportunity to start now as a full-time physio with the women’s team, and I’ve been looking forward to starting for a while.”
Players’ fitness is always one of the main priorities for the Old Gold, and training plays a huge part in getting the team ready for match day. Working alongside Nathan Maxwell, the club’s strength and conditioning coach, Christos is on the lookout for any weaknesses and will be there to try and help the squad develop.
Football has always been a part of life for Christos; he played from a young age in academies before branching out into the academic side of the game.
“I think it’s in my genes, my DNA,” he says, “and I have a massive interest in women’s football.
“I’m in the right place now, and whilst we look to help develop certain aspects of player development, I will ultimately be making sure we prevent injuries in the process.”
Of course, should someone in the squad pick up a long-term injury it can be difficult to stay motivated to get back to full fitness and into the starting 11. One of Christos’ roles is to ensure that those out on the sidelines keep that motivation.
Like Nathan, Christos knows that a good player-coach relationship goes a long way to maintaining a high morale.
“It’s about finding out what players need, and if it’s something I can help with, then that is what I am here for. I really want my door to be open at all times,” he notes.
“It lets everyone feel comfortable and understand they can speak to me without any fear. Building a trustworthy relationship and having those one-to-one serious conversations really helps not only the players’ development, but also allows them to feel open to ask for and get the help they need.”
Working alongside full-time manager Dan McNamara, it was vital for Christos that the relationship between both was good.
During his first week, Christos had already sat down with Dan and the other members of the backroom staff to discuss the plans for the season, and also allow everyone to understand each other’s way of working.
“It’s nice to have a balance within personalities at the club, because not everyone is the same.
“We knew from the beginning what we all wanted, and I understood my role within the club and what is expected of me.”
Speaking to Christos after our opening day victory against Stourbridge, he mentioned just how respectful the squad is.
“We have a great group of not just players, but personalities as well. The changing room is shining already, and it is always positive with every player having a good relationship with each other.
“Once this aspect is in place, and when you have got it right, you can take it as far as you want!”
By Matt Ponter
