Ben Foster Uncovers the Tough Truth Behind James McClean’s Brief Vegan Journey
Ben Foster, the former England goalkeeper, recently shared an intriguing story about his former teammate, James McClean, on the podcast “That Wrexham Podcast.” Both players spent time together at West Bromwich Albion and reunite at Wrexham in the 2023 season. Foster’s account sheds light on McClean’s brief venture into veganism during their time at West Brom.
James McClean’s Brief Vegan Journey
Foster revealed that McClean attempted to adopt a vegan lifestyle just before their pre-season training began in Austria. This move occurred just ahead of a notoriously grueling training regimen led by manager Tony Pulis. Foster remarked on the challenges McClean faced during this transition.
A Tough Pre-Season Regimen
During pre-season, Foster described the intense physical training under Pulis as “famous” for its difficulty. He recounted how McClean struggled dramatically with the demanding workouts while trying to maintain his new diet.
- McClean began his vegan diet one week before the pre-season.
- The training took place in the mountainous regions of Austria.
- Foster noted that McClean “nearly collapsed” during the rigorous activities.
As Foster humorously recounted, McClean’s brief experience with veganism ended quickly. After feeling “in a bad way for a couple of days,” the Irish footballer swiftly reverted to a meat-inclusive diet, seeking the protein and energy necessary for the arduous training.
Veganism in Sports
While some athletes, like Lewis Hamilton and Novak Djokovic, have thrived on a vegan diet, McClean’s struggles highlight how challenging such a transition can be for professional footballers. This situation raises questions about the intersection of dietary choices and the rigors of competitive sports.
In conclusion, Foster’s anecdote not only entertains listeners but also illustrates the physical demands professional athletes face, potentially challenging their dietary preferences amidst intense training schedules.
