Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson feels a winter break would benefit England, but admits such a decision is unlikely.
The debate regarding the closing down of the Premier League mid-season has rumbled on for years, with the pros and cons discussed on a regular basis.
Those directly involved in the game feel a rest period would be most welcome, giving players an opportunity to recharge their batteries.
Many of the top divisions across Europe have already implemented such a scheme, and have responded positively.
It has also been noted that the success of the national side in these countries has improved as players are fresher when major tournaments roll around.
England, though, has steadfastly refused to follow suit, with television commitments making a break almost impossible to accommodate.
United boss Ferguson feels the Three Lions will continue to underachieve while exaggerated demands are placed on the players, but appreciates that the authorities have other factors to take into account.
Expectation
“There’s too much expectation on the England team,” he said at the Aspire4Sport Conference in Doha.
“There are too many games, they need a winter break but the TV schedule won’t allow it.”
Ferguson has also given his opinion on who the next England manager should be, with Fabio Capello set to step down after Euro 2012.
He has stopped short of giving names of those he feels will be in the frame, but does not buy into the belief that the national coach has to be English.
The Scot believes that a nation such as England needs the best man for the job, regardless of where they come from.
He said: “I admire Fabio Capello and the next England manager needs to be the best to win a World Cup. If the best is abroad, so be it.”
