Training Notes: Lions Prepare For D.C. United Tomorrow

Adrian Heath’s men continued to find their form as preseason training progressed at the Orlando City SC training facilities today. Heath seemed pleased overall with the headway the players are making toward regaining their fitness. Practice is starting to focus more on the overall formation of the squad, with Heath getting his first look at how the players will fit certain positions. He also reported there are no new injuries on the squad.

Brek Shea’s performance last night certainly caught the eye of the coach, who was impressed with Shea’s sixth minute goal. While he was concerned about Shea playing the full 90 minutes — he last played a competitive match Dec. 6 for Birmingham City in the English Championship — the coach says he spoke with Shea this morning and he seems to be in good shape and good spirits.

Number one pick Cyle Larin finished his third training session with the club, and seems to be settling in well with the team. He will be looking to take his recent experiences with the Canadian U-20 team into the season and tomorrow’s friendly in Bradenton against D.C. United.

Second year player Tyler Turner is also back in camp after his stint with the United States U-20s in the CONCACAF Championship. The camp experience has given him the perspective to understand his role this season on a club with more competition than last year in his right back position. When asked what is different about this year's pre-season camp from last, Turner said it wasn't as much the level of play but simply the nerves of playing with players like Kaká.

Speaking of Orlando's franchise player, Kaká has returned to Orlando after a quick trip to Brazil. He did not train today and he reportedly will not play in tomorrow's friendly against United.