Portsmouth defender Sylvain Distin has called for football authorities to rework the fixture list, which he considers congested.

Distin was saying he sympathises with players during the international break, because while he has rested, those who play for their country are even more weary by the end of it.

The Frenchman said: "They have to look at it because things need to change.

"We are used to training every day but we are not used to seven games in 23 days. It's too much.

"I try to be positive all the time, but sometimes enough is enough. I was shattered after all those games recently."

He added: "Normally I would be honoured to play for France but I think I am going to have to announce my international retirement because I am so tired.

"I feel sorry for our international players because by the end of this week they would have played two more games on top of that. It is tough for them.

"I am not going to deny it, before the international week I was really, really tired. Seven games in 23 days is a lot and I've played every game.

"We all need our rest and that is why I have enjoyed the break so much."