English winter break 'agreed in principle for 2020'

An agreement has reportedly been reached in principle between the Football Association, Premier League and English Football League for a winter break to be introduced.

The idea of a short interval midway through the campaign was first raised by FA chief executive Martin Glenn two years ago.

Sky Sports News suggests that the plans have now moved a giant step closer to being enacted, as the three parties involved are happy for the first break to be pencilled in for January and February 2020.

A round of Premier League matches will be played over two weeks, while the FA Cup fifth round will be switched to midweek, effectively giving each club a fortnight off.

As part of the proposal, replays will be scrapped in the fifth round in favour of extra time and penalties.