At the coal face

"I'M proposing a mind-body concept. That is to say, the possibility of harmonising thoughts and action. These are really ancient techniques and those who practice them can bring joy into their every day lives - so why not footballers."

You what? This was the explanation of Achille Baronio, manager of Italian non-league team Visanese, for making his players walk barefoot over hot coals recently. At times like this we feel like starting a "Bring Back Ron Atkinson" campaign.