GB team is closer
Football chiefs have moved a step closer to an historic deal to field a Great Britain team at the 2012 Olympics if London is awarded the Games, it emerged today.
Standard Sport has learned that discussions took place between officials from the Football Associations of England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in London at the weekend.
Bid officials are keen for a deal to be struck before the International Olympic Committee vote on the 2012 venue in July next year. The English FA is believed to be working hard to find a solution suiting all the British associations.
The prospect of football tournaments for men and women, with finals at the new Wembley, would be a major selling point for London's bid. Great Britain have not fielded a team since 1960.
London 2012 bid leader Barbara Cassani met FIFA delegates on Friday. FIFA president Sepp Blatter, who is also an IOC member, has been given the red carpet treatment during the meetings, which are part of FIFA's centenary celebrations. Today he was due to meet Tony Blair at Downing Street and the Queen at Buckingham Palace.
