CHRISTMAS CRACKERS

Wolves boss Nuno fuming over ‘dangerous’ festive fixture pile-up

WOLVES boss Nuno Espirito Santo has slammed the “dangerous” Christmas TV schedule served up to his side.

Nuno says a 45-hour break between games against title-chasing Manchester City and Liverpool is not only ridiculous, but threatens the welfare of his players.

The Portuguese gaffer said: “They have to go and compete and we will compete, of course. But it’s tough, dangerous.

“I’m not the only manager speaking about this, English football and the Premier Leagure has to look and ask if it makes sense.

“Broadcasters need players. People go to the stadiums to see players, to see the players they love.”

Nuno is furious at the lack of consultation, given that Wolves have already played 18 games and travelled thousands of miles because of their Europa League commitments.

Their game against City has been switched from Boxing Day to December 27 with a 7.45pm kick-off to be shown on Amazon Prime. Then Wolves must make the trip to Anfield on December 29 for a 4.30pm kick-off, screened live on Sky. After that he takes his troops to Watford on New Year’s Day.

Nuno raged: “It’s absurd, ridiculous. We are the team that have played more games already – the busiest team in all competitions, then we have to face this schedule of two games in 45 hours.

“Nobody can understand it, I would like to have someone explain to me why. But I keep coming to the same conclusion – it’s absurd.

“It’s not about the teams who you face, it’s about the time. Don’t come and tell me about Amazon and Sky. Look and protect the players.

“I will ask for an explanation. I will try, but who am I?

“I don’t expect to benefit, but let’s be fair and reasonable.

“I’m entitled to my opinion but nobody asked us. They have just put the fixtures up and made it public, and now we have to do it.”