Fraser: Olympic football decision must rest with the players

Reports state the British Olympic Association has announced an agreement for Scottish and Welsh players to play in a British Football Team at the 2012 Olympics.

Both the Scottish Football Association and Welsh Football Association have denied this.

Murdo Fraser MSP, Scottish Conservative Deputy Leader, said:

"Sport should be above politics and it does not reflect well on any party or institution that chooses to politicise sporting issues.

"We strongly believe any decision on participating in a British football team at the 2012 Olympics should be down to the individuals themselves. If they want to take part then they should be allowed and if they don't then that wish should be respected. Players should not be forced into it if they want to stay out of it, and they should not be barred from it if they want to take part in it.

"We also want a firm guarantee that there will be no pressure after the Olympics from FIFA or UEFA for a British football team to compete in European Championships and World Cups. Above all else, this is absolutely vital."

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