Jesse Marsch believes this year's winter World Cup could benefit Leeds United.
The Whites have several players fighting to make their respective national team squads.
"Right now we're so focused on the early stages of the season and for us to have a good start is really important," Marsch told ESPN.
"It obviously means that some of the players that are in our team are really motivated to have a good start to the season, so they can give themselves the best chance to make their national teams and go to the World Cup."
He added: "Our fan base demands the most out of all of us, including myself.
"They don't accept anything less than full work ethic, full commitment.
"I think we'll address the full strangeness once we get to the November time frame and understand what the World Cup will bring. Then our schedule is incredibly busy after the World Cup starting with a Boxing Day match against Manchester City."