Sunderland boss Martin O'Neill would support a winter break.

O'Neill has again backed calls for a winter break, having experienced the benefits of such a mid-season breather during his time managing Celtic.

"I believe that because of our traditions we should play on Boxing Day and into the New Year but I'm all on for a winter break," he said.

"I think it's very important, even psychologically.

"I'm thinking about sometime after the third round of the FA Cup, taking two weeks break. Even if you then prolong the season further into May, having had experience of it in Scotland, there is no question that break helped the team enormously, and in Europe too.

"Players have a focal point at the start of the season and that couple of weeks, psychologically, can give them a lift. It's a tough old season, the English season, it's as physically demanding as any in Europe so I am all on for a fortnight break in January."