Team GB Olympic deal sparks outrage

THE leaders of Scottish, Welsh and Northern Ireland football have reacted with outrage at an “historic” announcement by the British Olympic Association that players from all ‘home’ nations will be eligible for selection for Team GB at the London 2012 Games.

The announcement by the BOA was made with the knowledge of the Football Association but came as a shock to the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish FAs.

It means young players such as Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey of Wales, Northern Ireland’s Jonny Evans and Scotland’s Barry Bannan could play in a Great Britain shirt next year. It also affects selection for the women’s team.