The winter break’s winners and losers

The break will happen in February.

Published Jan 27, 2020

Last updated Jan 27, 2020

The mid-season player break for Premier League players will take place next month, with one round of top-flight fixtures staggered over two weekends.

The break is in the spotlight with Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp saying he will “respect” it by letting under-23s boss Neil Critchley take charge of a youthful side for the FA Cup fourth-round replay against Shrewsbury.

That tie will take place – unless moved for television – on February 4, which is the first week of the two-week break period.

Here, the PA news agency explains how the break will work, who gets the most rest, and which players will be most in need of it.

When does the break happen?

Do all teams get an equal break?

Southampton boss Ralph Hasenhuttl has a nine-day gap between games (Mark Kerton/PA)

What about Liverpool?

Will anyone else feel aggrieved?

Wolves' match against Liverpool on January 23 was their 40th of the campaign already — Wolves’ match against Liverpool on January 23 was their 40th of the campaign already (Nick Potts/PA)

Which players have played the most?

Most minutes played by Premier League players in 2019-20 — Wolves and Liverpool players will have cause to rue their shorter breaks (PA graphic)