Nick Harvey is a highly accomplished Head of Physical Performance with more than twenty years of experience in elite football. He has worked with Southampton FC, Reading FC, England’s national youth teams from U19 to U21, and performance departments in India and Vietnam. Known for his ability to develop players and teams to reach their maximum potential, Harvey has worked with future stars including Gareth Bale, Theo Walcott and Phil Foden. Today, he most recently led the Physical Performance department at the PVF Academy in Vietnam, where his focus was on educating the next generation of coaches and preparing players for the demands of the modern game.
International Experience
In addition to his work in England, Harvey has gained valuable international experience in India and Vietnam. As Head of Sports Science at ATK in the Indian Super League, he collaborated with coaches including Teddy Sheringham and Robbie Keane. Since 2020, he has been leading the Physical Performance Department at the PVF Academy in Vietnam, a FIFA three-star academy. There he not only developed performance programmes for players but also mentored and educated the first generation of Vietnamese physical performance coaches.
There he not only developed performance programmes for players but also mentored and educated the first generation of Vietnamese physical performance coaches.
Coaching Philosophy
Harvey is recognised for his integrated approach that combines sports science with the tactical and technical demands of the modern game. His focus is on holistic player development, injury prevention and building mental resilience. With his clear, team-oriented leadership style and his ability to support both emerging talents and established professionals, he has established himself as a respected figure in the field of physical performance.
His focus is on holistic player development, injury prevention and building mental resilience.
Our Exclusive Interview with Nick Harvey
Who is Nick Harvey outside of football?
Outside of football, Harvey recently spent several months in Hoi An, Vietnam, with his two daughters. He enjoys travelling, with Indonesia and Japan among his favourite destinations, and keeps his passion for snowboarding alive with annual trips to the mountains. Golf is another hobby, while his connection to the game remains strong as he follows English football closely.
What challenges did you face working in Asia compared to England?
In Asia, the main challenge was adapting to extreme heat and humidity. Training loads had to be adjusted, and matches were sometimes played in forty-degree heat. Communication also required sharper non-verbal skills, and cultural perceptions about physical ability had to be overcome. By using data, Harvey was able to prove that Asian players could compete with their European counterparts.
What qualities do you look for when assessing young players?
Harvey looks for a mix of endurance, speed and the ability to repeat high-intensity actions while recovering quickly. Strength is essential to prevent injuries and ensure consistent performance. Just as important is mentality. He highlights players like Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka, who combined talent with a relentless drive to improve.
How has your approach to performance coaching evolved over the years?
Starting at Southampton in 2000, Harvey saw how fitness coaching relied heavily on trial and error. Over time, he developed an integrated approach, combining tactical and technical objectives with physical training. He values technology and data but insists that coaching fundamentals, clarity and teamwork remain the foundation.
What is your vision for the future?
With his family in Vietnam, Harvey aims to continue contributing to football in Asia. He sees opportunities to raise performance standards through his consultancy work. His long-term goal is to inspire sustainable growth and help players and coaches unlock their full potential in an increasingly global game.
