Liverpool Legend Jamie Carragher slams FIFA international break calendar

Speaking to the Telegraph, former Liverpool man Jamie Carragher said: "This international break has shredded the Premier League's integrity. It is not acceptable. For a long time I have considered international breaks an inconvenience. This weekend, it is an unacceptable intrusion.

"Eight Brazil players and three from Argentina will be among the Premier League's South American contingent representing their countries in the early hours of Friday morning. It is inexcusable that FIFA has allowed World Cup qualifiers to be scheduled at such a time.

"Three international breaks before Christmas is too much. It would be better if it was reduced to one longer break in mid-season, and then ending the domestic campaigns earlier to enable a series of qualifying rounds in May or June. That would also help coaches, building momentum with back-to-back games."

Manchester United, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City have arranged a private jet to bring their South American players back to England in time for the weekend's round of fixtures. However, fitness levels remain a major concern.