3 Aug 2009Scudamore argues 'impossibility' of friendlies during season

Football Clubs News | Football Leagues/ Association and Governance

It would be almost impossible for football clubs in England to increase the number of friendlies they play during a typical season, it has been stated.

English Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore has revealed that it is unrealistic for clubs to fit in friendly fixtures on top of their typical workload, including league fixtures, cup games and, for some, European showdowns.

Manchester United played a testimonial clash in Saudi Arabia in January and have recently been in talks about the prospect of playing Liverpool in India in an exhibition game in India before Christmas.

Scudamore said: "It is almost physically impossible I would think unless they both decided they did not want to play in the FA Cup, which no one will be recommending they do.

"There is almost no chance of being able to plan with enough certainty and in advance friendlies within the season until you know you are knocked out of various competitions. This is going to be a very limited opportunity for a very limited few."

Meanwhile, Manchester City have already planned a trip to the United Arab Emirates in November to play the national team during an international break.

A group from Abu Dhabi completed the takeover of Manchester City last year from former owner Thaksin Shinawatra.

Written by Craig Kemp

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