By Andrew Warshaw in Paris
March 23 – Britain’s new FIFA vice-president Jim Boyce says there is still time to persuade the four national Home Associations to provide players for a unified team at the 2012 London Olympics.
The Northern Irishman begins his four-year term in June when he succeeds England’s Geoff Thompson and is prepared to do everything he can to resolve the current impasse over a unified Olympic football team.
The Scots, Welsh and Northern Irish remain resolute in their determination not to get involved in the Olympic football tournament for fear of losing their individual status within FIFA.
“They have made it clear that nothing must be done to jeopardise their positions,” said Boyce.
“They are very concerned as to what could happen in the future and are adamant that they do not with to take part in a united Olympic team.
“But it’s the epitome of many peoples’ careers to take part in the Olympics and I will do everything in my power to resolve the situation.
“I don’t want to see a fallout.
“Mr Blatter has made it clear that it [taking part in a unified team] would not affect them.
“I have absolutely no doubt he is sincere but he’s not going to be around for ever and there is no guarantee that someone else will also make that particular statement.”
But, says Boyce, there may be a way through the impasse.
“One of the things that perhaps might be done is that the FIFA Executive Committee, if asked to do so, put in writing that should a player be selected for the Olympic team, it would not in any way jeopardise the future status of the four Associations.
“I would be quite happy to put that forward if the three Associations feel it is a way round the problem.”
The outspoken Boyce is the complete opposite of the more introverted Thompson (pictured) and in an interview with insideworldfootball pledged to give Britain a greater voice within the corridors of power.
FIFA insiders say Britain’s lack of strong vocal standing within the organisation was one reason for England being beaten so badly in the 2018 World Cup bidding race.
“The most important issue is to represent fully the views of the British Associations,” said Boyce who intends to play a leading role in restoring both Britain’s and FIFA’s credibility.
“I believe in openness, honesty and transparency.
“If there is something I feel is not right, I will say so.
“At least twice year I intend to invite the British Associations to see if they have any points that they want me to raise with FIFA.
“It’s something that needs to be looked at very carefully.”
Some within FIFA have long been uncomfortable with the so-called British seat on the Executive Committee, a position traditionally nominated rather than elected.
“It’s very important that we stick together,” said Boyce.
“This is a big opportunity for the four Home Nations.
“I’m not convinced they have always shown the united front that is needed.
“We need to start building relationships with FIFA.”
The introduction of goalline technology is one issue about which Boyce is passionate.
UEFA President Michel Platini takes the exact opposite view but Boyce said: “I have had a very strong view on this for many years.
I have not met a single top referee in all my travels who has said they would not welcome goalline technology.
“The time has come when it has to see the firm light of day.”
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