Lampard calls for fixture leeway

28 February 2014 08:47

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard has called on the Premier League to be more sympathetic to Champions League teams when scheduling weekend matches.

Jose Mourinho's men face west London rivals Fulham on Saturday having undertaken the difficult trip to Istanbul to play Galatasaray in Europe on Wednesday.

"It's not ideal," Lampard was quoted as saying by the Daily Mail. "We don't expect any favours and certainly know we won't get them. It's about resting up and getting ready to go.

"I don't know about the Premier League but other countries seem to look after their teams representing them in the Champions League. I'm not sure we do so much here.

"I'm not trying to get one over on other Premier League teams, it just seems a general rule. There could be a bit of common sense if you are getting back at 6am.

"We can't moan, we've got a fantastic squad with fit young players. We have to get on with it."

Source: PA