Middlesbrough manager Tony Pulis has been getting hot under the collar about the international break ahead of his side's match with Sheffield Wednesday tomorrow.

As reported by the Northern Echo, Pulis is angry at the amount of time he's had with his players ahead of the Friday night clash in comparison to the time the Owls have had with theirs.

“The break is difficult because we don’t get the players back. Sheffield Wednesday had one player away – we had ten."

It isn't just the number Pulis had away that is of concern. Darren Randolph, George Saville, Mo Besic and Martin Braithwaite all played in matches on Tuesday and will struggle for fitness ahead of Friday's game.

“This will be our first day training today. That's disappointing, but we have to get on with it. The facts are the facts - we've put that forward to the bodies concerned – but we don't think that's a fair outcome. It can be difficult. In times to come, whether it's Middlesbrough or other clubs, if they're picking games on a Friday night, try pick it more even."

Pulis revealed he has raised the issue with the higher powers and hopes for a response.

“I've put a letter in and I think they understand where we're coming from. We'll see. It's too late for us, but it's not just about Middlesbrough, it's about other teams in the league and the league itself.”

The Verdict

I'm not usually one for backing a moaning manager, but Pulis does have a point. Games should not be scheduled for a Friday after an international break, but the TV company perhaps don't see it that way.

It might not be as unfair if Boro were playing a side who had players involved in midweek, such as Forest, but Sheffield Wednesday are fit and raring to go.

I'm not sure anything will be done about it though, TV scheduling rules football now.

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