A lot of them haven't had a proper one though.
Like who? The ones who were playing in the World Cup just a few weeks ago?
Anyone who played in the WC QF onwards and added with that the needless internationals midweek which is another few days out of pre-season.
Doesn't the international count? They still do fitness work, and play a match.
Like I say I'm just sick of the excuses. These are professional athletes, unless they've had serious injuries none of them should be struggling still.
They'll be doing different things in the int'l training i'd have thought, more specific match stuff rather than general fitness work.
As you say though its no excuse although i reckon a few of the World Cup players will be fucked by the time Jan/Feb comes around.