March 9 – FIFA has appointed former Liverpool head of medical services Andrew Massey as director of its medical department.
In his new role, Massey will be responsible for improving the health of players, from grassroots to the elite level, around the world. He will also supervise medical services at FIFA tournaments.
“The work of a physician at club level focuses on 25 players and offers little chance to effect the broader public,” Massey said in an interview with FIFA.
“FIFA has a much bigger reach towards the public and through the establishment of policies it can have an impact on the health of players and individuals through football.”
The Northern Ireland physician began his career in sports medicine as a national team physician with the Irish Football Association in 2008, before joining Liverpool five years later.
“The role will especially focus on preventing injuries on the field of play and promoting football as a healthy leisure activity,” said FIFA. “The medical director will lead FIFA’s medical and anti-doping team, dealing with all matters relating to health in football.”
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