Mancini backs winter break

As the European club scene shuts down over the festive period, the Premier League is gearing up for one of its busiest times.

Four games must be navigated over a 10-day stretch which will offer solid clues about the destination of this season's title.

Even as a relative newcomer to the English scene, Mancini is already acutely aware the Christmas and New Year programme is far too entwined within the culture of the nation ever to be changed.

But, like rival bosses Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger, the former Inter Milan chief feels it would be an advantage if the New Year was to herald a temporary cessation of hostilities.

"In England, Boxing Day is very important game," said Mancini. "But maybe English players need a rest sometimes. It might not be Boxing Day but maybe in January you could have a week off for all the players. That would be a good opportunity for them."

Source: PA

Source: PA