• London Olympics 2012

Bale causes stir by wearing Team GB shirt

October 30, 2011
Gareth Bale intends to play a part at the Olympics © Getty Images
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Gareth Bale's decision to be the first player to pose in a Team GB shirt for London 2012 has proved controversial, and FA of Wales chief executive Jonathan Ford remains firm on the issue.

"Our position remains unchanged,'' he told the BBC. "We are not for Team GB. Gareth can make his own choices and make his own decisions, but we are not going to stop anyone playing.''

A British Olympic Association spokesman said the Wales and Spurs midfielder was a natural choice to promote the London 2012 football supporters' shirt after publicly announcing his intention to take part in the Games.

"We have maintained all along that Team GB will allow for the consideration, and possible inclusion, of players from any of the home nations, so it only makes sense that Gareth would appear in the photo,'' the spokesman said.

Bale wore a limited edition shirt which has been produced to celebrate the four home nations coming together to form Team GB.

The official team kit will be launched next year.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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