The rule (from the PL rules I assume): Section E, rule 20 says: "In every league match each participating club shall field a full strength team."
I see why McCarthy did it, but he's hinging a lot on beating Burnley. If they don't... BBC is reporting the league have written to Wolves asking for an explanation of the team selection, so punishment may yet follow. Refunds to fans, or something along those lines, should be enforced in my opinion. Wolves to Manchester and back on a Tuesday night? That's a lot of money and dedication to see your manager give up as soon as the bus pulls up at the ground.
The other thing I see against it is that on Saturday Wolves' usual team earned an excellent win at Spurs. Surely those players would be perfect to put against United - high on confidence, and United aren't exactly playing well are they? Sure, no one likes going to Old Trafford after United lose there, but why adopt such a completely defeatist attitude?
The more I think of it, my judgment is coloured by my dislike of McCarthy generally. I kinda hope they do lose to Burnley now. Burnley, by the way, will play at full strength against Arsenal tonight, without a doubt.
2. Winter break? I'm all in favour and have been for years. The Christmas period is expensive enough as it is without 3-4 games to shell out for. Only the biggest teams are fully prepared for so many games by this stage of the season. I'd happily forego matches between the middle of December and New Year's Day.
3. Notts County are a total farce. QPR take some beating on that front - let's be fair, they make Newcastle look good. They'll need a new manager in the coming weeks as it's very unlikely Magilton will return. So no, Starkers, Notts County aren't, and will never be, that bad! I find them both hilarious though.