Arsenal defender Jurrien Timber has warned that football’s packed schedule is “dangerous” and putting players at a greater risk of suffering serious injuries.
The current calendar is a major topic at the moment and earlier this month Manchester City midfielder Rodri claimed players are ready to go on strike.
Players are having to contend with at least two extra games this season due to the new Champions League format, while that could increase to four if they do not finish in the top eight of the league stage and have to play a two-legged play-off to the reach the last 16.
Chelsea and Manchester City are also playing in the new month-long Club World Cup this summer, which could mean seven extra games for them.
Timber has revealed the current schedule is a “big topic” among players and their voices must be heard going forward.
“I totally agree with them,” said Timber, when asked about Rodri’s comments.
“It’s a big topic at the moment in dressing rooms, not only at City and Liverpool but also our dressing room.
“I didn’t play last season, so I’m just enjoying playing right now - you won’t hear me complaining but I totally understand what they’re saying.
“I honestly think it’s a dangerous thing. Last week we played City and I think they played again two days later, that’s too much. I understand why players are complaining.”
Mikel Arteta was asked last week about the prospect of players striking and underlined the need for governing bodies to consult them.
“I think they are raising their voices and I think we have to listen to them,” he said.
Timber has echoed that and also referenced the fact the new calendar means players in England have lost their winter break.
“It’s a really good point [by Arteta],” he said. “The players are speaking right now and let their voices be heard. It doesn’t look like it’s getting any less (busy) at the moment.
“We’re just trying to be there every game to give our best, but it gets hard when the games keep coming and coming. Especially in England without having a winter break, it’s really hard.”
