Brendan Rodgers left Gustaf Lagerbielke out of his core plans at Celtic last season, and that convinced the defender to leave Celtic Park.
Last summer, the Scottish champions let the 24-year-old join FC Twente on loan and he’s made 24 appearances in all competitions so far this season.
Voetbal International spoke to the Celtic man, with Twente Insite relaying his comments.
The Sweden international has struggled for regular playing time at Celtic and received support from a mental coach.
Lagerbielke’s former teammate at Celtic, Matt O’Riley, introduced him to a specialist and the duo, along with other players, still have a weekly session with him online.
“Matt knows a guru there, a spiritual meditation coach. He organises a guided meditation session once a week for Matt, me and a few more guys. Just via webcam. We exchange experiences, the guru gives us tips for on the field and in our lives,” he said.
“Then we meditate together for forty minutes or so. Very pleasant and soothing. Besides that session, I also try to meditate for myself every day.”
In addition to this, the Celtic owned player explained what he does to help with his physical recovery. The report states the Swede does everything he can do to be optimal both mentally and physically.
“I have a mattress at home with stones and infrared light. After training I lie on it. It warms you and is good for your body. I go to bed on time, cook my own healthy food every day,” Lagerbielke explained.
The defender’s mother ran a private academy along with former Swedish wrestler Martin Lidberg.
Lagerbielke has now revealed Lidberg helped him to ‘get stronger’ physically when he was at AIK.
“I grew under Martin, literally. I became stronger and sturdier,” he added.
“Football is like wrestling when there are dead moments. He taught me many things that are still useful to me today. Putting opponents off balance, using your arms well.
“If a striker has his back to me, I know what to do to subtly force him to one side with my body. Then I had to endure it. Martin threw me in all directions. Later I also got him to the ground sometimes, but only if he allowed it.”
