Tag: Kwara Football Academy

Former Kwara Football Academy Technical Director Paul Ashworth has described the continuous negligence of the FIFA recommended 48-hour rest by the English FA as ridiculous.

Ashworth who is now in charge of Astana FC spoke exclusively to Sports Intelligence Magazine on the issue saying: " It's ridiculous that this is going on in England despite the current scientific knowledge".

"Although, there are no laws made by FIFA to that effect, but the recommendations to allow players rest for 48 hours before next match should be respected" he added.

Ashworth personally feels that 48 hours is not even enough as players should be given more time to rest: " I see no reason why games cannot be played after 3 days (72 hours), this will afford players enough time to rest".

" I’d recommend that there is a minimum of three days between games and to adjust the calendar accordingly- therefore if the games were 26th - 29th and 1st Jan then this would fit in with the three day rule"

"Unfortunately its a tradition in England, and traditions take a long time to change". "The Coaches complain every year and nothing changes, and that is really unfair"

Ashworth did not fail to comment on the role the fans play in influencing the decision to have the matches played on Boxing Day . When prompted on that, Ashworth responded:

"I also know its geared towards the fans - who look forward to games on Boxing Day and New Year’s Day plus the Saturdays in between". Hence, there is high expectations from the fans to watch matches on Boxing Days.

He also spoke on the business impact of changing the current norm of playing matches in England as TV right holders need to be considered.

"But it will be complicated" he said, "Because television wants to split the games so TV viewers can see different games at different times"

Paul Ashworth guided his side to win the Kazakhstan Premier league, super cup and got to the group stages of the Europa League where they beat Manchester United but didn’t qualify for the next round

Unfortunately, Nigerian players who play in the English premier league can hardly come home during the Christmas festive period to stay with their families. They are obliged to stay back and play for their clubs.

While other Nigerian players playing in other top European Leagues such as Spanish-Laliga, German-Bundesliga, the Italian Serie A and others all go on Christmas break to stay with their families.