Boss backs calls for winter break

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Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier has backed calls for a winter break in the Premiership calendar.

The idea has been touted around for years but with some players now playing in excess of 60 games a season, more and more of the top managers are starting to support the idea.

"Many people have picked up on the point of players being tired in the World Cup after a long season - and I am in favour of a winter break," said the boss.

"I would maintain the English tradition of playing football over the Christmas period but then I would have a break of three weeks to allow them to take a rest."