Redknapp backs Welshman Bale for Olympic duty
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will not prevent Gareth Bale from playing for Great Britain at the Olympics despite the reluctance of the Welsh federation to sanction his appearance.
- Agence France-Presse
- Updated: October 22, 2011 11:35 AM IST
Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp will not prevent Gareth Bale from playing for Great Britain at the Olympics despite the reluctance of the Welsh federation to sanction his appearance.
Stuart Pearce, who was named as British team coach on Thursday, already faces opposition from the Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish Football Associations who fear for their footballing independence if their players turn out for a British team.
Bale said he is keen to play at London 2012, but his participation in the tournament requires the consent of his club manager.
"If that's what he wants then I wouldn't stop him playing," Redknapp said.
"I think it's a great honour for anyone to play in an Olympic Games. It must be fantastic, something to look back on for years to come.
"To play in the Olympic Games in England, I think it would be a great honour for any player. I certainly wouldn't stop anyone going."
Bale's selection, and that of former England captain David Beckham, would boost flagging ticket sales and Redknapp hopes support for the event gathers momentum.
"I hope it does take off. I will be watching the football, and the athletics and the boxing if I can get a ticket," the Spurs boss said.
"I am looking forward to a great summer of sport, like everybody is."