Rooney could lead GB Olympic team
Wayne Rooney could lead the Great Britain Olympic Football team should his Euro 2012 ban, which will see him miss England’s group fixtures, be upheld
Just a day after Stuart Pearce was announced as coach the Football Association is considering opening the door to players who don’t play much at the tournament and those who aren’t selected.
That could include Rooney should UEFA reject the appeal over his three match ban and England crash out at the group stage or shortly afterwards with players who feature heavily in Poland and Ukraine unlikely to be considered.
Club England managing director, Adrian Bevington admits the FA are aware of the physical aspects that would come with a player representing his country at both he Euro’s and the Olympics.
“What we don’t want to do is lock ourselves in. I think we’re aware of the challenges that would be presented for any player to play in both tournaments. Obviously there is a different level of demand there,” .
“We’re not going to say no one who goes to the Euros could actually go to the Olympics. Any of the situations would have to be managed sensitively and sensibly.”
Despite the prospect of Rooney lining up for Great Britain in London next summer Bevington revealed the priority is ensuring that the Manchester United striker is available for the European Championships.
“I think this is something Stuart would have to have a view on. But the priority for Wayne Rooney and the England men’s senior team is the European Championship.”Bevington said
“We’re awaiting Uefa’s written reasons following the incident a few weeks ago and, until that time, we cannot dictate what our pathway’s going to be on that.”
“Our real hope is Wayne can be available for the championship. Once we know where we stand it’s one for Stuart and Fabio [Capello], really”
