• London Olympics 2012

Players should be able to play for Team GB - Ramsey

Aaron Ramsey wants to have the chance to play a part at the Olympics © PA Photos

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Aaron Ramsey has added further fuel to the ongoing row over the Great Britain Olympics team by appearing in the Team GB shirt - less than a week after Gareth Bale drew criticism from the Welsh FA for posing in the same top.

The FA of Wales has voiced concerns that a united Olympics campaign between the home nations would see each national association lose its identity and harm their respective relationships with FIFA.

Wales captain Ramsey was photographed wearing the London 2012 football supporters' shirt, further upsetting chiefs at the FA of Wales. However, the Arsenal midfielder has hit back, saying he sees no issue with wanting to "win a gold medal".

"If we have the opportunity to play, why not? You're representing Great Britain in the Olympics," he told the South Wales Echo.

"Having the chance to win a gold medal doesn't come around very often. Players should go ahead and do it - I don't see what the problem is. I've spoken to Gareth and he's up for it. I think the Welsh are fine for it."

Ramsey did make it clear who he would like to be one of the over-age players in the squad: "It would be great if David Beckham was involved in some sort of way."

But FA of Wales president Phil Pritchard responded, saying: "The FAW's stance is exactly the same. As far as we're concerned, there is no agreement with England for there to be any involvement.

"I am a big believer that people are entitled to their views, but they should also consider the implications to others rather than just themselves. There are times when you have to stand up for your country.

"Let me make it absolutely clear, I am not against Welsh involvement in the Games. I'd be delighted to enter a team of our own and have no objections to England having a team of their own. Unfortunately, that isn't the case.

"And I would ask this question. Do the BOC really believe Premier League managers such as Harry Redknapp and Arsene Wenger would be happy with their players appearing in the Olympics next July and August when the new season is just about the commence?"

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