Olympic squad a target for Bale

Gareth Bale has indicated he would relish the opportunity to take part next year’s Olympics for Team GB.

The Welshman is looking to become part of the 2012 squad, a statement that won’t sit well with the Football Association of Wales.

FIFA have granted the request to field a Great British team in next summers football tournament yet Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland have opted against the chance claiming their independance in international football will be comprimised.

Football’s governing body have denied that any effect will happen but with the three countries standing firm on their decision, an all English team is likely to take to the field at Olympic Park.

Bale, however, remains caustiously optimistic that he could take part next summer while admitting the decision will likely rest with the FAW.

“I want to play in the Olympics. I think it would be a great experience,” said Bale.

“At the moment Wales haven’t qualified for a major tournament in I don’t know how many years so it would be nice to play in one against the best countries in the world.

“You see it with the British and Irish Lions in the rugby, they come together as a unit and play against other countries. It’s great and there’s no reason why that can’t happen with the football.”

“The crowds would be piling in to watch us. It would be a great atmosphere and experience for us.

“I’m not really sure how it works with who can play though. That’s something that Wales would decide.”

Bale recently signed a new contract with Spurs until 2015 and has been linked with moves to Real Madrid, Inter Milan and Barcelona after a series of fine performances over the past 18 months.