Premier League chief Richard Scudamore confirms ‘discussions’ over winter break after new England boss Sam Allardyce backs idea
English sides traditionally play through Christmas period unlike many on continent but plans may never become reality
RICHARD SCUDAMORE has confirmed that the Premier League are 'in discussions' with the FA over the possibility of a winter break - but can't say when, or even if, it will be introduced.
New England boss Sam Allardyce used his unveiling to call for time off over the Christmas period as he believes the current schedule has a detrimental effect on England players in tournaments.
The possibility of a winter break is a divisive issue for fans, with many wanting to retain the traditions that go back over 150 years.
But some believe that fixture congestion contributes to fatigue and England should follow the example set in European powerhouses and give players a mid-season rest.
Premier League bigwig Scudamore told Sky Sports: "[Sam Allardyce] is very consistent. He's been calling for [a winter break] for a long time, as has every England manager.
"We are not against a winter break, we've gone on record as saying we're in discussions with the people we need to be in discussions with, which is the Football Association and the Football League.
"Those discussions are taking place, but I don't know how close or near we are because I wouldn't want to compromise those negotiations."
But Scudamore is aware that there may be opposition to any changes to the calendar and accepts it is a while before any break would become reality.
He continued: "Of course, even if the three bodies come up with a solution, we would then have to roadtest that round with the clubs involved and the fans.
"We're in discussion and there's a willingness to make it happen but I can't put any sort of timescale on when it might.
"If it was easy, it would've been done already."
Martin Glenn, chief executive of the Football Association, yesterday revealed how the bumper TV deal is currently holding back any chance of a winter break in England.
He claimed that it would the 2019-20 season at the very earliest before any changes could be made.
Glenn said: "To make it happen you need a whole-game solution. You need an agreement.
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"The Football Association is a competition owner, as owner of the FA Cup, and the Premier League and English Football League need to agree too. There is a consensus that it would be a good thing to do.
"If we are going to get a winter break, which the FA very much wants, it would be after the current Premier League TV-rights deal is done.
"There’s more consensus for that than you might think."