SLIGHTLY-built Ching Ko is the newest recruit to the Reebok backroom team - offering more proof that Sam Allardyce will try whatever it takes to gain an advantage over his Premiership rivals.

Two years ago it was Chinese medicine, now it is Tai Chi - and footballers can benefit from the ancient oriental art.

"It helps with flexibility, co-ordination and muscle balance," said Ching, who also puts on pilates and yoga sessions, and reckons Anthony Barness is her star pupil.

"Flexibility is so important for injury prevention."