England vs Brazil: Key British Stars to Watch in Warm Up for London Olympics

Because of the separation of England, Wales, Scotland and North Ireland as different soccer federations, there hasn't been a Great Britain soccer team in the Olympics since 1960. That will change this year as the Games will take place in London. While no Scottish or Northern Irish players are on the squad, there will be five Welsh participants.

The British team will attempt to medal against a very tough field and will have a warm-up friendly against Brazil on Friday. Brazil is considered by many to be the gold medal favorites, so there is no doubting that it will be a fantastic test for Great Britain. A win isn't necessary, but it would generate a lot of confidence heading into the Olympics.

Here are three British stars worth keeping an eye on in Friday's friendly as Great Britain attempts to reach soccer prominence once again.

Ryan Giggs

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs is one of the most decorated stars in EPL history, but he has never had the opportunity to play in a high-level international tournament. The 38-year-old Welsh star will captain Great Britain, however, and play in his first Olympics.

While Giggs isn't as big of an offensive contributor as he was in his younger years, he still plays a big role for the Red Devils and will do the same for Great Britain.

Giggs is one of Great Britain's three overage players, and he will be the unquestioned leader. It may be difficult for him to keep up with the speed and skill of Brazil on Friday, but what Giggs has lost in athletic ability he more than makes up for in positioning, intelligence and overall savvy play.

Not only can he diffuse opposing attacks, but he makes the smart passes offensively as well—so it will be interesting to see what he does on Friday.

Jack Butland

Goalkeeper Jack Butland may only have 24 career appearances at the club level for Cheltenham Town of League Two, but he will be expected to backstop Great Britain to a medal in London.

What the 19-year-old lacks in experience, though, he more than makes up for in talent, as he is considered to be England's best goaltending prospect. The true question is whether he can hold up against some of the world's biggest international stars, though.

He will receive his first huge test against Brazil as the Canarinho may have more talent and dynamic players than any team in the Olympic field. Neymar is certainly chief among them, and is a guy Butland will have to be cognizant of at all times.

Butland is going to need help from his defense, but Brazil will inevitably get some golden scoring opportunities. How Butland fares when those chances arise will say a lot about him as a player.

Micah Richards

Micah Richards established himself as a dominant defensive force at right back for EPL champion Manchester City this past season, and he will be one of Great Britain's three overage players at the Olympics.

Richards wasn't named to England's Euro 2012 squad, but he is going to be a key figure in the Olympics—particularly against teams like Brazil and Spain, since they send continuous waves of exciting offensive stars on the attack.

Richards may very well be the most important player for Great Britain on Friday against Brazil, as he will be the clear anchor for GB's back line. If he falters, then Brazil is going to have a field day and Butland is likely to be under siege.

If he plays like he usually does for the Citizens, however, then Great Britain is going to be very tough to break through, and should be a stingy defensive team with a great shot at a medal.

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