Cobblers bring in new sports science guru

Prestridge, who has also worked at Watford, Derby County, Nottingham Forest and Burton Albion, has been handed the title of head of sports science and assistant professional development coach.

He has also worked for the Nike academy and at Loughborough University and holds a UEFA B licence.

And Wilder is confident the new man can help prevent some of the injuries that blighted the previous Sky Bet League Two campaign.

“It’s no secret that we suffered far too many injuries last season and we needed to address that,” said Wilder.

“We have spent a lot of time looking into the reasons why, and we have added Matt and Pablo to strengthen our infrastructure and support for the players.

“You will always suffer injuries in football, some are unavoidable but we need to reduce the risk of avoidable injuries occurring to an absolute minimum, and to also make sure the players are as fit and strong and as well prepared for a 50-plus game season as they possibly can be.

“League two clubs can’t afford to carry huge squads, so keeping injuries to a minimum and getting players who are injured back out on the field as soon as possible is crucial to give you the maximum chance of being successful.”

Another new recruit is Pablo Garcia, who has been appointed as the club’s first team rehab coach and academy sports scientist.

Anders Braastad has been confirmed as Cobblers’ permanent first-team physiotherapist, having taken on the role since the departure of Stuart Barker in February.