• London Olympics 2012

Euro 2012 rule could offer Beckham Olympic chance

ESPN staff
February 10, 2011
David Beckham could yet be a part of England's football squad for the 2012 Olympics © Getty Images
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David Beckham could have the chance to represent England at the 2012 Olympics, as the FA are set to advise any players selected for the 2012 European Championships that they cannot then represent their country in the Games.

Senior Three Lions players including Wayne Rooney had been linked with participation in the Olympics - the first time Britain have competed in the finals of the event's football tournament since 1960 - but they will be advised they are not to compete if, unlike 2008, Fabio Capello's men qualify for Euro 2012 in Ukraine the same summer.

Earlier this week Manchester United chief executive David Gill, on behalf of the European Club Assocation, warned "a player who is in the squad for Euro 2012 should not then be in the Olympic squad". Lord Coe, chairman of the London Olympics organising committee, has confirmed such an arrangement looks likely.

"I'm sure the clubs will have a say on that, as well as the domestic federations, and clearly it may not be possible for players to play in both tournaments," Lord Coe said. "That is very much an issue for football."

The rules for the Olympic competition, which is in essence an under-23 tournament, allows for three 'over-age' players in every squad. With the likes of Rooney forbidden from participating, that could leave the door open for 35-year-old Beckham - who is unlikely to be required by Capello in 2012 but has frequently underlined his commitment to the Three Lions' cause.

The LA Galaxy midfielder, who has been training with Premier League side Tottenham in recent weeks, has previously admitted he would be interested in participating in the tournament, should he still be playing at a sufficiently high level.

"If I'm still playing and I'm still considered to make a difference to the team I'd love to be involved," Beckham said.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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