Ramsey eyes Olympic call

Wales captain Ramsey joined international team-mate Gareth Bale in pledging his allegiance to the controversial team, the formation of which is opposed by the Football Association of Wales. But the FAW are powerless to prevent Ramsey and Bale taking part in the July tournament. And with Wales having failed to reach next summer's European Championships, it appears certain both will be selected by Stuart Pearce, who is expected to be confirmed as Team GB head coach before the end of the month. Speaking ahead of Wales' Euro 2012 qualifier against England, Ramsey said: "If given the opportunity, it's one that I'd like to take. I've heard that Gareth has the same feelings as well towards that. I'll just have to wait and see." With Wales having failed to qualify for a major tournament since 1950, the Olympics arguably represents Ramsey and Bale's best chance of showcasing their talent on one of the big international stages. Ramsey added: "If there's a chance of playing in the Olympics and having the opportunity to win a medal, it would be a great one to achieve in your career." Press Association Sport understands the Scottish Football Association have also accepted they are powerless to prevent Scotland players taking part in next year's tournament. They, the FAW and Irish Football Association all oppose the concept of Team GB as they fear it could ultimately damage their status as individual countries within FIFA and the special powers they hold as one of the home nations. The SFA have sought to "educate" Scottish players about the reasons behind their stance, as well as warning of a potential backlash from members of the Tartan Army should a player decide to accept a call-up to the men's or women's Olympic squads. That has failed to deter Arsenal and Scotland women's star Kim Little, who is determined to play, although team-mate Julie Fleeting is of the opposite view. It is understood the IFA has not issued orders asking Northern Ireland players not to participate, with national team boss Nigel Worthington recently revealing he was happy for members of his squad to take part. There is a high likelihood of Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish players being selected by Pearce, with the Football Association having vowed not to pick any England player who takes part in Euro 2012. The British Olympic Association has also insisted it would be a breach of Olympic anti-discrimination rules if an English-only team represented Great Britain at London 2012. The FA and Pearce's biggest battle ahead could therefore now be with the clubs, with the Olympics taking place just before the start of the season.