By Andrew Warshaw
July 27 – British Olympic Association (BOA) chairman Colin Moynihan has played down suggestions by FIFA President Sepp Blatter that Tottenham Hotspur’s Gareth Bale could be banned for pulling out of the Olympics if there was an official complaint that he did so under false pretences.
Bale (pictured above) withdrew from the Olympic squad with a back injury just before Team GB coach Stuart Pearce announced his final squad of 18 but scored this week for his club on their pre-season tour of the United States.
Blatter warned afterwards injured players could be suspended if they appeared for their clubs during the Olympics.
But Moynihan (pictured below) said: “I don’t agree with the comments.
“I think Sepp Blatter needs to get closer to Team GB.
“I understand the response from some football fans who were hoping to see Gareth Bale play as part of Team GB.
“My view is different; I welcome the fact that he has returned from injury earlier than expected.”
Tottenham say the decision to omit the Wales international was made jointly with Pearce and his staff.
A club statement read: “The club considers the recent comment and accusations regarding Gareth Bale’s fitness to be wholly unacceptable and unjustified.
“For the avoidance of any doubt – Gareth sustained an injury as he built up his fitness ahead of joining up with Stuart Pearce’s side.
“MRI scan reports were sent to the FA medical team on 29 June.
“He was subsequently not selected on the basis of this injury and the inability to predict recovery time.
“This decision was not taken lightly and made only after consultation with Team GB’s medical team, who were in agreement.
“At no time was Gareth made unavailable for selection.
“We trust that this statement now clarifies this matter once and for all.”
Contact the writer of this story at zib.l1734829361labto1734829361ofdlr1734829361owedi1734829361sni@w1734829361ahsra1734829361w.wer1734829361dna1734829361