As our Under-18s navigate a busy pre-season in preparation for the upcoming campaign, head coach Hassan Sulaiman has been reflecting on his squad’s accomplishments last term and explained how he hopes those achievements will motivate his new side to reach even greater heights in 2024/25.

Recently returning to Cobham after a weeklong training camp in Portugal, Sulaiman expressed his excitement for the upcoming season and shared his plans to continue developing his young squad both physically and mentally.

We caught up with Sulaiman after he returned from the Under-18s' week-long training camp in Portugal to gain some insight into his preparations for the new campaign, which kicks off at Cobham against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday 17 August.

It’s been a couple of weeks since you returned to Cobham for pre-season training. How does it feel to be back?

'It feels brilliant to be back. Since returning, it’s been non-stop hard work on and off the pitch but, as always, it’s been a great and enjoyable experience so far.'

What has pre-season at Cobham looked like for the squad?

'I’m sure it’s been a tough start for the boys as we have been focusing primarily on rebuilding their fitness and core foundations in preparation for league action.

'Recently, we have closely examined their aerobic and anaerobic fitness while working on developing their muscular strength and endurance. It’s been a lot, but there are already lots of positives and I’m sure more will follow.'

The squad also experienced a week-long training camp in Portugal. How did that go?

'Portugal was extremely beneficial not only for me but for all of the boys. During our time at the campus we did double sessions that included several tough challenges to test the boys' mental resilience and see if they were ready for the intensity of the upcoming season.

'For example, one of the tests we imposed was a dawn hike – a four-kilometre trek that tested them both physically and mentally. As you can imagine, many of the boys were exhausted, but they ultimately pushed through, which impressed me.

'These training camps are crucial in football terms but also on a personal level. It’s a great opportunity to bond and form deeper connections, understanding a different side of the boys off the pitch.'

Why do you think it’s important to make those connections across the group?

'Spending time at the training camp to get to know the boys makes all the difference. With many younger players coming up from the Under-16s squad, it was an opportunity to see how they carry themselves in terms of maturity.

'The boys need to be sure they can make the jump to Under-18s football, as everything is more intense. I feel responsible for knowing whether they are comfortable in that environment.

'Additionally, the time away is great for bonding and creating connections, which is important for fostering the team togetherness we strive for.

'So far it’s been very exciting and I have really enjoyed seeing the challenges we have faced. I'm looking forward to the season ahead.'