Arsenal manager, Mikel Arteta, has dismissed suggestions that Chelsea’s use of rugby tackle pads in training represents a special preparation for Sunday’s Premier League London derby.
The Blues attracted attention during their preparations for the clash at the Emirates Stadium after images from their Cobham training ground showed several players using large rugby-style tackle shields during physical exercises.
The unusual-looking session led to speculation that Chelsea were working specifically on ways to counter Arsenal’s threat from set pieces, an area where the Gunners have established themselves as one of the Premier League’s most dangerous sides.
However, Arteta played down the significance of the training methods, explaining that such equipment is commonly used by football clubs.
“Everybody Uses Those Pads” – Arteta
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Arteta rejected the idea that Chelsea had discovered an unusual tactical approach ahead of the derby.
“That’s something that a lot of clubs use; we use those pads as well. Everybody uses those pads in circuits. I think that’s something very, very common,” Arteta said.
Images from Chelsea’s training session showed Joao Pedro, Valentin Barco, Pep Chavarria and Josh Acheampong holding tackle shields as their teammates performed drills involving heavy physical contact.
The exercises are typically used to recreate the intensity of challenges and aerial battles players encounter inside the penalty area during competitive matches.
Chelsea’s approach generated particular interest because of Arsenal’s strength at set pieces.
The Gunners scored 22 Premier League goals from set-piece situations last season, the highest total in the division.
Arsenal have developed a reputation for creating problems from corners and free-kicks through aggressive movement, physicality and well-timed runs into the box.
Reports also suggested that former All Blacks rugby player Willie Isa was involved in parts of Chelsea’s session, adding a rugby influence to their physical preparations.
Despite the attention surrounding the training images, Arteta insisted there was nothing unusual about Chelsea using the tackle pads, stressing that Arsenal also employ the equipment during their own training routines.
