Young defender has his say on tough training
ALBION youngster Kyle Howkins admits the physical demands of training in the Austrian Alps have taken him by surprise despite being pre-warned by his team-mates.
The centre-back is sampling his first taste of pre-season with the Baggies’ senior squad after spending time at Kidderminster Harriers on loan during the 2015/16 campaign.
And, after three days of hard graft, there’s no doubt in the 20-year-old’s head that this has already been one of the most challenging experiences of his life.
“A few of the lads told me what it was going to be like but it has still caught me by surprise to be fair,” said the 20-year-old.
“It’s probably one of the hardest things I have done based on the first few days here.
“You look at the hills and you first think that it won’t be that tough, but once you get started you quickly realise just how difficult it is and your legs are burning like crazy.
“You have to be strong mentally to push yourself to keep going.
“We have three sessions every day so I am making sure I am getting plenty of sleep and recovery in as well as getting lots of food and water on board to make sure I am ready.
“It’s my first time away with the first-team so it’s great to experience it and see what they do and how they train.
“It’s a big opportunity for me to show the coaching staff what I can do.”