RHYS EVANS has turned to the ancient Chinese art of Qi Gong to aid his preparations for the new season and his tutor just happens to be the man who keeps Roman Abramovich and the Chelsea squad in tip top shape.

The Town keeper was a firm believer in Rob Brinded's methods during his time at Stamford Bridge and the 22-year-old is willing to look at all ways of improving his game, however unusual.

Evans said: "Rob has introduced me to Qi Gong.

"It's all based on the fact that there are various energy points in your body and that a variety of stances can help you utilise that energy.

"I can't say it's something I've been doing in the garden in broad daylight but I am someone who will listen to anyone who feels they can help me improve my game.

"Rob tells me that some people can hold a stance for up to 20 minutes at a time but my arms are aching well before that."

Qi Gong combines breathing, mental focus, stretching and movement.

Evans worked with Brinded during his time at Chelsea and the fitness expert is still working with numerous members of the current Chelsea squad.

The former England Under 21 keeper said: "After my last session with Rob he was due to fly out to spend some time working with Roman Abramovich on his yacht.

"People who know me will acknowledge that this is really 'out there' for me.

"It helps you to chill out and I am quite an intense person at times."

While he is working hard to prepare for the new domestic season, Evans is also closely following the Euro 2004 drama in Portugal.

He knows a lot of attention will be focused on England goalkeeper David James as England prepare to face Switzerland today.

The Manchester City man was criticised in some quarters for his positioning against France as Zinedine Zidane's free-kick whistled past him on Sunday.

Evans said: "As a goalkeeper, questions are always going to be asked about you if you haven't actually dived for a ball.

"He'd never admit it publicly but deep down I think he'll be disappointed. He just has to go out to face Switzerland determined to prove a point.

"People were asking questions about me and the focus was on me after our game at Plymouth last season. I was determined to prove a point and I'd like to think that's what I did.

"If you put out a confident persona people can sometimes use that against you. They will pounce on any mistake.

"David James is the England goalkeeper and he should remind himself of that fact. If he needed any other motivation, he also knows Paul Robinson is right behind him and waiting to take his place."