Ice cold suits Babel
by Richard Field, 26 March 2008
Post-match ice baths are helping Liverpool winger Ryan Babel develop his fitness levels to the necessary standards needed to survive the rigors of The Premier League.
The Dutchman has started nine of the last ten games as Rafa Benitez’s team bid to cement their crucial fourth-place in the league table.
"I'm learning so much here and again I can see that it's often the small details that make the difference," Babel said.
"After a match we have to stand in an ice bath for five minutes. You can be affected with cramp or lactic acid, and that causes small tears in the muscles, but by applying cold water it repairs the damage immediately.”
Babel, who left Ajax to move to Anfield last July, is confident his best is yet to come as The Reds also chase another Champions League title this season.
"It's understandable I'm not playing 90 minutes. Physically I'm not yet at the point that I'm able to play 90 minutes in the crazy tempo of The Premier League.
"Rafa Benitez said that he signed me because he wanted more players in the squad who can get past opponents.
"Of course my status as a young talent carries certain expectations but Liverpool see me as a rough diamond that needs to be cut and polished," added Babel.