Chef Jonny Marsh’s top nutrition tips for amateur footballers to boost performance | UK | News
New research reveals two-thirds of amateur footballers are overhauling their diet by switching to performance-enhancing foods instead of traditional post-match treats. A recent survey of 1,000 adult football players found that the desire to perform at their best has led to a significant shift in amateur athlete nutrition.
Almost two-thirds (67%) of players actively seek a competitive advantage through diet; 4 in 10 people avoid alcohol, 24% rarely eat burgers and 23% avoid kebabs.
Emphasizing a move away from the junk food they might have “escaped” from their teenage years, the research found that 56% of Gen Z players now follow a diet designed to maintain energy levels during matches, taking inspiration from YouTube channels, health sites and social media chiefs.
More than a third (33%) hope to perform better for their team and a third want to increase their resilience levels. Players believe that poor nutrition has a greater impact on their team’s performance (22%) than poor communication (19%) or even tactics (13%).
The findings come as follows Specsavers Brentwood-based Warley FC have launched a campaign with former footballer and pundit Micah Richards and private chef Jonny Marsh to turn around their team’s fortunes. The team had a difficult season last season, losing 18 of 20 matches and conceding 81 goals.
Chef Marsh, who has cooked for professional football players, worked with the team to implement a new diet; He even gave football’s favorite chicken pot pie a ‘superfood upgrade’.
Warley FC manager Luke Armstrong confirmed the guidance was already bearing fruit. “Last year the team was in favor of regular kebab, then we had a very difficult season,” he said.
“A week after Jonny joined us, the team secured a confident 2-0 win… A clean sheet, a balanced performance and a result that we are excited to see how their progress develops.”
Marsh’s key message to players is simple: “Fuel up the way you want to play. Small consistent changes, like the right carbohydrates to ensure steady energy, can make the difference in how long you can last on the pitch, how sharp you can feel in those final crucial minutes, and more importantly, how quickly you recover.”
Specsavers’ Kim Bull said: “With players aged between 18 and 42, the Warley team all prepare differently, especially when it comes to diet.
“Getting the right fuel is a real challenge with kick-offs at 10.30am on Sunday, so Micah’s call to bring in Jonny will help Specsavers’ Best Worst Team finish their season on a strong winning streak.”
