Canadian Ben Johnson,who was caught in of one of the most sensational doping scandals in world sport 23 years ago,claimed that football great Diego Maradona and sprint king Usain Bolt followed his fitness programme that he developed after retirement. Asked about the recent Indian doping scandal,Johnson,who was stripped of gold medal hours after winning the 100m dash in 1988 Seoul Olympics as he returned positive for anabolic steroid stanozolol,said,"I always advise my wards to train hard and improve their endurance. Most importantly,one needs to be mentally tough. "Over the years I have developed a programme which can help the players improve their physical fitness and mental aptitude. I've used them on many including Diego Maradona whom I trained for three weeks in 1997. Even Usain (Bolt) follows my programme," he said. Johnson,who is here in connection with the trial of his two Indian origin wards with I-League champion side Salgaocar,felt that 100m world record holder Bolt is the best sprinter now and he can do even better. "I think he needs to improve his start. He also needs to work more on his flight. There's no doubt he is the best and would continue to be with his hard work and dedication," Johnson said even though he did not give a direct reply when asked who is the best sprinter ever.
