Martinez warns England squad against use of sleeping pills and energy tablets

Oct 19, 2012 2:32:00 PM

After defender Glen Johnson revealed that the Three Lions players self medicated ahead of the clash against Poland, the Wigan boss branded it "a step into the unknown"

Wigan manager Roberto Martinez has warned Roy Hodgson over the England squad’s use of sleeping pills and energy tablets.

Liverpool defender Glen Johnson confirmed that the Three Lions players took caffeine pills leading up to the game against Poland on Tuesday, before taking sleeping pills when the game was postponed.

The Spaniard agrees that the players needed rest for the game but questions the use of sleeping pills and the long-term effects they can bring.

"Footballers need to train well and to sleep well - eight hours," he told The Sun.

"But I'm not a big lover of sleeping pills as you can't be sure of effects further down the line."

As for energy tablets, Martinez admits he has tried the same methods with the Latics in past seasons, but branded it “a step into the unknown”.

Martinez continued: "In previous seasons we have used energy pills, but not very often. And not this season - we are looking at more natural ways to keep energy levels up.

"From our own experience, we don't like to give players artificial things."

Sign up with William Hill for a free bet up to £25
Sign up with bet365 for a free bet up to £200
Sign up to Paddy Power for £250 in free bets
Sign up today with Coral and get a £50 FREE bet - no strings attached!
Sign up today with BetVictor and get a £25 FREE BET!