Lean Doherty ready to show Ireland the benefit of Conte's mean regime

“Fitness-wise, there has been a huge improvement among the whole squad"

20 September 2022; Matt Doherty and James McClean, left, during a Republic of Ireland training session at the FAI National Training Centre in Abbotstown, Dublin. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Beads of sweat are swept from Matt Doherty’s brow as he enters the FAI conference room, although the exertions of Ireland training are bearable compared to Tottenham’s regime.

If Antonio Conte is to rid Spurs of their soft reputation, peak fitness is a prerequisite. The sight of Harry Kane vomiting and Son Heung-min collapsing on the Korean turf in exhaustion during pre-season testified to the discipline demanded.