Alan Shearer has hit out at the use of hydration breaks at the World Cup, saying they are for “adverts”.
The breaks happen twice per game, halfway between halves, lasting around three minutes for players to get fluids on board.
However, they have come under criticism over the necessity of them, with some fixtures being played in just 20C heat with air conditioning.
Shearer, speaking with Betfair, said: “For players’ safety, when it’s too hot, yes, absolutely have a hydration break.
“But, for example, England’s game was air-conditioned. 21C. Perfect temperature with a roof over. So, there is absolutely no need for players’ welfare to have a hydration break.
“We all know what they’re for. We all know why they have brought them in.
“And the vast majority of time, unfortunately, it’s not for player welfare. It’s for adverts.”
There have been mixed reviews from players at the World Cup over the hydration breaks.
Alan Shearer has criticised the hydration breaks at the World Cup
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Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk has been outspoken on the hydration breaks, describing them as “interesting”.
The Liverpool centre-back said: “Every time going to commercial is a bit … not really that I like it.
“I think for the neutral watchers on TV it’s also not great.
“If it’s really hot, obviously it’s good to put (the water breaks) in. I think you have to look at it in every game separately. But I think I’ve said enough already.”
Virgil van Dijk also questioned the need for hydration breaks at the World Cup
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England defender Nico O’Reilly said that they can be useful, but doesn’t feel that they should become a necessity.
The Manchester City full-back said: “I don’t feel like we need them, we’ve acclimatised well.
“They’re in the tournament, and we can’t do anything about it.
“They are a good chance to get information and take fluids on board.”
Nico O’Reilly feels hydration breaks are not necessary
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Belgium’s Youri Tielemans shared that as a player, he can see how it works in both ways.
The Aston Villa midfielder said: “In some cities, it’s not that hot and maybe we shouldn’t do it.
“But at the end of the day, if you do it in some cities, you should do it for everyone.”
