So, the bloated Infantego World Cup approaches.
3 host countries
16 venues spread cross 3 time zones,
48 participating countries.
104 games over 39 days, 11 June - 19 July
Quarter finalists will play 6 games
Semi finalists will all play 8 games - either as finalists or in the 3rd/4th place play-off mstch
There will be lots of travelling by, tricky weather conditions and players will come back knackered. This will surely have a knock-on effect in terms of form and fitness next autumn.
From a totally selfish Villa point of view, I'd be happy for the countries with Villa players in their squads to go out in the early rounds, so we can get them home and properly rested for next season.
And as the competition runs from just shy of 6 weeks, it'll also affect the transfer window
Here's who could be on their way to the competition - some more likely than others.
England - Konsa, Rogers, Watkins, Abrahams
Scotland - McGinn
France - Digne
Belgium - Tielemans, Onana
Netherlands - Maatsen, Bizot
Argentina - Martinez, Buendia
Brazil - Luiz
Play-off teams:
Sweden - Lindelof
or
Poland - Cash
Jamaica - Bailey
