Dover’s top goalscorer this season has called for the National League to have a winter break after playing four games in 10 days.

Ryan Bird said the league should have a break over the festive period so players can recover properly.

Speaking after the draw with Halifax on Saturday, Bird said the recovery period is much easier for players in top level teams.

He said: “It’s ridiculous. We are screaming out for a winter break for just like a week. The amount of games we play.

“All the top teams get the perfect rehab and massages and have all the technology they can get.

“It kills your legs and then we have the game with Maidstone on 3G so it’s even harder. We just need to recover quickly.

“It kills my knees and my back. It’s a lot different and you can’t judge the bounce.”

The 30-year-old forward has 12 goals in the National League this season and has been key to the success of Chris Kinnear’s side.

Bird said: “I never set myself a target at the start of the season. You just have to get yourself in the right area at the right time with good crosses.

“It’s been working well so far, I’ve got 13 in all competitions. I’m just going to keep getting in the box.”

He is pleased with his performances so far this season but was left frustrated at not being able to score against Halifax.

Dover created few chances in that match and could not seem to break down their opponents.

Bird added: “You just know it’s not going to be your day. Normally we create a lot of chances and get good crosses in the box but we were just a little bit off our game.

“It was a scrappy game really but you have to take some positives. We didn’t create enough chances to nick something.

“They were absolutely buzzing with a point at the end of the game they were cheering like they won it.”