Cardiff boss Malky Mackay hits out at "ludicrous" summer internationals

Malky Mackay has branded the international football schedule threatening to ruin Cardiff City's start to the season as "ludicrous".

The Bluebirds play their first league game against Huddersfield Town at home on August 17, less than two days after they could have up to 10 players away on international duty.

City also have a League Cup tie against Northampton Town earlier that week and is faced with the prospect of a significantly weakened side to kick off the season.

Mackay said: "This is unbelievable, some of my players will be asked to play for their country on the Wednesday and for Cardiff two days later, which is ludicrous.

"We have been left in an unbelievable situation, common sense has certainly not prevailed when it comes to these early season fixtures."

Mackay will not be the only club manager feeling anxious about an abundance of international football, with both an Olympic tournament and a series of friendlies taking place this summer.