Halford angry at timing of games

Wolves' new boy Greg Halford has hit out at the "ridiculous" timing of the international week just days before the start of the Premier League season.

The club lose centre-back Christophe Berra from tomorrow as the defender joins Scotland's squad to prepare for their World Cup qualifier in Norway next Wednesday.

Wales trio Wayne Hennessey, Dave Edwards and Sam Vokes and Republic of Ireland duo Kevin Foley and Andy Keogh leave after Saturday's friendly against Real Valladolid.

If fit, Kevin Doyle and Chris Iwelumo would also have been away with the Irish and Scottish squads respectively.

The club don't yet know if Serbian captain Nenad Milijas faces the nightmare journey to South Africa for a friendly.

Halford believes it's worse for the promoted teams, who have had to do more work in the transfer market and are trying to get new signings to gel. "I think it's ridiculous to be honest," he said.

"It's the most important time for preparation, particularly for the newly promoted teams. We're going to miss quite a few players so it's going to be hard.

"Training is going to be tough in respect of developing tactics, formation and getting the right personnel in for the West Ham game."

At least Halford, who has played for England at under-20s level, will remain at Compton.