Sir Alex Ferguson wants the continental system of a winter break to be adopted by the Premier League. The Manchester United is prepared to see the congested Christmas period remain untouched, but has called for action to then be staggered at the start of the New Year.

"I've thought long and hard about this, and I have a plan. You could keep the Christmas fixtures as they are, but stagger one round of 10 league matches throughout January," he told the Red Devils' official magazine, Inside United.

"Three games could be played on the first weekend, another three on the next weekend and the final four on the third weekend. TV broadcasters wouldn't lose out because they can show matches each weekend - and players could rest."

Ferguson is also of the opinion that players and supporters would benefit from the conclusion to the season being pushed back.

"Last season the league finished on 11th May. Why can't we extend it until the end of that month and take two weeks off in January?" he said.

"The weather is better in May, and there's no issue with worn-out pitches in modern football. Will it ever happen? Well, I've been talking about a winter break ever since I came down to England, 22 years ago.

"The managers have continually asked for one, but the people in charge still think football is a winter game."