England boss Gareth Southgate will ask stars if they want extra time off
GARETH SOUTHGATE will ask his senior players whether they want a few extra days holiday at the end of the season or get cracking on preparations for Russia next June.
GETTY
England’s first match against Tunisia on June 18 is four whole days after the opening ceremony, with matches against Panama and Belgium to follow.
England will not head to Russia until the 12th or 13th, in line with FIFA regulations.
FIFA dictate that all players in all countries must be given seven days off at the end of May. But before Southgate finalises his plans in March he will canvas opinion over whether players want to take advantage of the delayed start with a long holiday.
The alternative is to use that extra time on the training ground with the squad due to be based at St George’s Park, travelling from there for the two friendlies that will be finalised.
Top seeds Belgium present the most intriguing challenge and for once the England manager is not the only one worrying about the effects of a gruelling Premier League season – the majority of Roberto Martinez’s side also play their domestic football in this country.
We share a big challenge Gareth and myself
“You have to accept that the players have got big, important roles to fulfil from now until the end of the season, winning titles, playing in big games,” the Red Devils boss said.
“I think we share a big challenge Gareth and myself that the players are in the most demanding league in football, no break in the winter.
"We need to get the right balance in getting them fully fresh for the World Cup after the end of their domestic season.
“Every national team coach has a period now of real clarity of what you are going to facing and the preparation of the players you are going to be working with.”
