Football's elite can whinge all they like about fixture chaos but I know the real reason why top stars don't dare to strike, writes SIMON JORDAN

Each week, there are new threats and hand-wringing about the fixture list from the game's elite participants. Arne Slot has joined the party of those questioning the wisdom of such a congested fixture schedule Karl-Heinz Rummenigge claimed that players, managers and agents demand the highest salaries without accepting the consequences of more games to balance the books Rodri earlier this season revealed that players are considering going on strike amid concerns over fixtures We're at a stage where leading players and their unions are flexing their muscles. Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson is one of a number of high-profile stars to speak out against the number of fixtures Reducing the Premier League to 18 teams is something some clubs would like but those culled from the top-flight would likely not appreciate that solution Initiatives like reducing the Premier League to 18 teams is something certain clubs would like, but I'm not so sure the culled clubs and their players would appreciate that solution. Manchester City could play up to 73 matches this season as games continue to be added to the calendar Cole Palmer has not been registered for Chelsea for their UEFA Europa Conference League campaign Each participating club will receive at least £60m and that'll be passed down to the players – something that shouldn't slip their mind. Julen Lopetegui has come under pressure in the early stages of the season with West Ham 15th Former Hammers boss David Moyes won the Conference League but by the time he left it felt like the relationship had run out of wind I'm sure Lopetegui interviewed well, stressing the balance between a solid base to preserve results and producing ambitious football when the opportunity presented itself.