By Andrew Warshaw
December 19 – British Olympic Association chairman Colin Moynihan has given his backing to the decision that no players selected for England’s squad for the European Championship finals next summer will double up for Team GB at London 2012.
The announcement was made last week by Great Britain men’s coach Stuart Pearce, meaning the likes of Wayne Rooney as well as up-and-coming stars like Jack Wilshere and Theo Walcott (pictured) will not be able to play in the Olympics if they are chosen for the Euros.
Euro 2012 is due to start on June 8 with the final scheduled for July 1 in Kiev.
Britain’s first men’s match in the Olympic football tournament is due to take place at Old Trafford, Manchester on July 26, the eve of the official Opening Ceremony.
“You’ve got to look at the demands on the players and a decision has now been made that leaves no room for doubt,” said Moynihan.
“There are only 26 days after the final before the Olympic football competition kicks off and I can see why Stuart has come to that decision,” Moynihan told BBC’s Sportsweek programme.
“We have a great number of young players in the country who will be striving for selection.”
He insisted there had been no pressure whatsoever on Pearce from Premier League managers such as Sir Alex Ferguson eager for their players to have sufficient rest during the summer, saying “it’s absolutely Stuart’s decision.”
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