Mikel Arteta has reacted to Chelsea players using rugby tackle pads in training, as they get set to face Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday. Chelsea players used rugby tackle pads (also called crash pads or tackle shields) in training at Cobham this week ahead of their Premier League London derby against the league champions.
Photos and reports show players such as Joao Pedro, Valentin Barco, Pep Chavarria and Josh Acheampong holding the large pads while teammates charged into them. The drills simulate the aggressive physical contact and aerial challenges Arsenal often create from corners and other set pieces, where players run hard toward the goalkeeper or box. It was noted that experience rugby coach and former All Black star, Willie Isa, was involved in overseeing aspects of the drill.
Arsenal were the Premier League’s most effective set-piece side last season, scoring 22 goals from dead-ball situations. It is no surprise that Xabi Alonso is preparing his squad for that aerial and physical threat, including the “goliath”-style runs and contact Arsenal use. Speaking in Friday’s press conference, Arteta played down Chelsea’s training method, stating it is common among clubs.
“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.”