England Reduce Friendly Programme

[Istabraq]

I bet you Stan is thinking "great idea".
I mean the less games, the less bad results and therefore less stick, and a better percentage record perhaps. Genious what??

[elroy]

Wont happen with us cos our boys need the money that they get from friendlies.

Its been proposed before and i think it would be a great idea to have a bi annual tournament between Ireland, NI, Scotland, Wales and England (though doubt they'd take part). There would be much more interest in the games and add a much needed competitive edge. There also would still be opportunity for friendlies just not as many.

[OwlsFan]

International football is doomed long term. The money from the Champions League is now the God of football. FA Cup, League Cup all mean little anymore so it is natural international football will follow suit. Even the 6 nations rugby tournament for the first time ever is being hampered by clubs not releasing players.

When you get 50K a week and get a pittance in comparison for international duty, we can't be surprised if the players no longer get too excited about representing their country. They'll mutter the usual stuff about it "being an honour" but that's from a bygone era. Money is now the God of football.

[Torn-Ado]

If Ireland do that then Robbie Keane wouldn't be able to add to his impressive tally.

[Peadar]

We have to play all our friendlies away now so the money will be what the host FA pays, less any expenses.

[OwlsFan]

If Ireland do that then Robbie Keane wouldn't be able to add to his impressive tally.

Yep, including the great one against Holland in the WC qualifier and that never to be forgotten goal against Germany at the WC in 2002 :rolleyes: :rolleyes: