Alex was tired. His entire body ached from a hard Monday training session. The other U18 players were already heading for the showers, laughing and shouting.
Sam jogged over, his hair plastered to his head with sweat. "You coming, Alex? Me and the lads are getting pizza. My treat."
"Cannot," Alex said. He nodded towards the empty pitch. "I have... extra work."
Sam looked confused. Then he followed Alexs gaze.
At the far end of the pitch, Mark was standing alone. He had already set up a bag of balls. He was waiting.
Sams jaw dropped. "You... with him? On purpose? Willingly?"
Alex just shrugged and smiled. "We are working on my left foot."
"Wow," Sam said, looking back and forth between them. "Okay. This is weird. You two are weird. Are you... friends now?"
"I do not think so," Alex laughed. "He is just a... a very bossy training partner."
"Alright. Well... do not let him murder you," Sam said, backing away slowly. "See you tomorrow."
