Back to Work

The LA Galaxy players are back at back at work as they opened the 2008 preseason training today. While two familiar faces were missing from training, Landon Donovan and Kevin Harmse, several new faces were ready to take on whatever the coaching staff threw at them.

The start of training saw the guys begin with a few light laps around the field, followed by breaking up into small groups for some more running. After they completed some stretching, Assistant Coach Cobi Jones instructed them how to receive the ball before breaking into drills.

David Beckham, who was completing a test, arrived just in time for the start of two short-sided games. Even Cobi got in the action, proving that he isn’t quite ready to put those boots away for good. Returning for National Team camp, Steve Cronin jumped into goal for a moment, before Gullit told him that he didn’t want him playing. Ah the life of a starting goalkeeper. Don’t worry - the guys later ribbed him about not having to train.

Once training was over, the players were reminded that they only had two hours to rest and eat before they had to return for the afternoon training session. Below are a few photos from today's first day of training.

(From left to right): Edson Buddle, Troy Roberts, Quavas Kirs, Abel Xavier and Israel Sesay warm up with a few laps.Midfielder Kelly Gray and Forward Alan Gordon look happy to be back on the field.

A little preventative stretching on the first day.

Back to basic with a receiving drill.

Assistant Coach Cobi Jones, Head Caoch Ruud Gullit and Goalkeeper Coach Ian Feuer keep a close eye on the small sided games.

A strong media turn out for the first day, as David and Ruud speak to the LA media.