FCBARCELONA.CAT

29.06.2009 11:34

First training sessions at Bisham Abbey

Edgar Fornós

The Barça 2009/10 squad will begin training for the new season at Bisham Abbey, one of the leading sports complexes in England which stands some 10 minutes away from the team’s hotel.

Barça will start training for the new season at Bisham Abbey during their preseason camp in England from 21 to 26 July. The sports complex is to be the venue for the first physical tests and practice matches after the players’ holidays.

Similar to Wembley

Bisham Abbey has been England’s training centre for many years, and to make the players feel at home the pitch is the same size as the one at Wembley where England play their home games. The facility has been expanded and now features three pitches side by side.

Base for Portsmouth

Portsmouth used the facility in the build-up to the FA Cup Final in 2008 when they lifted the trophy for the first time since 1939 by beating Cardiff City 1-0. As a result they qualified for the UEFA Cup for the first time in the club’s history.