Distin wants fixture shake-up

Frenchman welcomes international rest

Last updated: 13th October 2008

Sylvain Distin

Distin: Feeling tired

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Portsmouth defender Sylvain Distin has called on football's governing bodies to address fixture congestion in Europe.

Prior to the current domestic break for World Cup qualifiers, Pompey had played seven games in 23 days after taking part in the Premier League, the Carling Cup and the Uefa Cup, and Distin was feeling the pace.

The 30-year-old has welcomed the luxury of a rest during the current international games and has suggested that bodies such as the Premier League and Uefa need to reconsider a gruelling match schedule.

"They have to look at it because things need to change," Distin told The News

Impossible

"We are used to training every day but we are not used to seven games in 23 days. It's too much.

"Physically it's impossible and if you've got a team with older players you've got to have protection. It is vital.

"I try to be positive all the time, but sometimes enough is enough. I was shattered after all those games recently."

The Frenchman, who has yet to represent his country, is also considering international retirement because he does not feel his fatigued body could tolerate additional matches - if he was to receive a call up.

Honour

"Normally I would be honoured to play for France but I think I am going to have to announce my international retirement because I am so tired," Distin added.

"I feel sorry for our international players because by the end of this week they would have played two more games on top of that. It is tough for them.

"I am not going to deny it, before the international week I was really, really tired. Seven games in 23 days is a lot and I've played every game.

"We all need our rest and that is why I have enjoyed the break so much. You are a human being, not a robot, and at this stage of the season it's a lot for any footballer."