ANDREA Orlandi has labelled demands for a crackdown on spitting in football as "a crazy idea".

Footballers have been warned that spitting during matches could increase the risk of swine flu, with the Health Protection Agency calling for the game's top players to cut it out after Bolton and Blackburn were hit by the virus.

The HPA issued an official notice on Wednesday, adding players should avoid spitting in order to reduce chances of infection.

The statement said: "Spitting is unhygienic and unhealthy, particularly if you spit close to other people.

"Footballers, like the rest of us, wouldn't spit indoors, so they shouldn't do it on the football pitch. If they are spitting near other people it could certainly increase the risk of passing on infections."

Difficult

But Swansea City midfielder Orlandi said spitting during a game is difficult to prevent.

"You don't have to spit, but when you are breathing heavily after putting in a lot of effort in a game it is a natural thing you do," said the Spaniard, who is set to return to the Swansea squad for tomorrow's trip to Scunthorpe.

"I know it is not the best thing to see, but it is a natural thing to do because you build up a lot of saliva in your mouth.

"It is quite a crazy idea, although I understand why they are saying these things.

"There are so many experts looking into it, but I'm not sure it will stop players from doing it."

CHRIS BARNEY