National soccer train-on squads to go for break

THE national men’s and women’s football squads will take a break for the festive period this week and resume training on Jan 5, says an official.
Papua New Guinea Football Association technical director Paul Isorua told The National on Monday that the squads were awaiting the arrival of their head coaches who would finalise the sides for next year.
National men’s team head coach Marcos Gusmao arrived in the country yesterday while arrangements were being made for Nicola Demaine to travel to Port Moresby.
Gusmao will undergo quarantine for seven days before the Brazilian joins his squad on Jan 5.
“Both teams will take a break for the festive season and resume immediately in the New Year on Jan 5,” Isorua said.
“So far, the fitness levels of both squads are good.
“The women’s train-on squad have been undergoing training programmes in their respective locations under certified women coaches from around the country.
“They are all following the same training programme issued by my technical department in close consultation with the incoming head coaches.
“Work and travel documents are being finalised, so Demaine should arrive in the country soon.”
Meanwhile, association general secretary Pius Letenge said they were finalising arrangements for Demaine’s arrival.