The international break had ended, and only a handful of players had been called up to represent their national teams. These included notable names such as Robbie Savage, Neil Lennon, Jackie McNamara, Henrik Larsson, and Steve Finnan.
With the schedule becoming increasingly packed—and with fierce competition from Derby County and Crystal Palace—the players were required to stay in the club dormitory.
The decision was made to improve training efficiency and ensure better team cohesion during this critical stretch of the season.
6:20 AM
Henrik Larsson felt a sharp stiffness in his back the moment he tried to sit up. Grimacing, he rose slowly from bed, his hand instinctively reaching for his lower back.
"I'm exhausted," he muttered.
A quiet groan escaped him as he stood, and his frown deepened when he turned toward the window.
Not even a hint of sunlight broke through. It was hard to remember the last time he'd seen a truly bright morning. Everything lately felt muted.
