Team GB in Olympics 08 - There Isn't One!

There has been an ongoing debate this summer: should players be allowed to temporarily leave their clubs and represent their countries for the '08 Olympics? It's not really at the forefront of the the world leaders' minds, but it’s important to me.

I've seen the debate in far off places, Spain to be particular—regarding Lionel Messi. Anyway this debate has not been in England and Britain, why? Because no players need to make a decision whether or not to leave there club for the Olympic team, because Team GB doesn't exist. That’s right; Great Britain has not entered a team for the Olympics. We, the founders of the game have seemingly fallen short of the mark recently concerning international football, missing out on Euro '08 and all that.

Well I think it's about time that we thought long and hard and started to put a bit more effort into international football. Most big-time journalists and pundits believe we (being England) need to shape up in the national team department. I think we would be one step closer if we played more, not only in competitions, but also friendly’s.

Yes, I see that this can be difficult with all players being tired, mangers not being pleased, and not all players wanting to play. But I think that those who don't want to shouldn't. They don't deserve to. Any player who doesn't want to represent their country shouldn’t be given the chance.

That brings us back to Messi. He was so keen to play for Argentina that Barcelona were forced to reluctantly release him. Barcelona and Argentina were negotiating a deal, then FIFA stepped in and stated that all club's had to release under-23 players. Messi, delighted with this, announced that he will follow FIFA's decision.

This has enhanced my opinion of him greatly. Not only is he one of the greatest players in the world at the moment, but he also has enthusiasm for the game and the right attitude.

Anyway, getting back to the main point of the article, I think if Britain entered a football team into the Olympics, we would be one step closer to improving not only the quality of football, but also players' attitude. By not forcing players to play, but playing those who are enthusiastic, I think our small island's international football will improve greatly. Yes, players will get tired, but it will all be worth it.