Stuart Pearce says nations' Olympics stance saddens him

Stuart Pearce says he is "saddened" by the reluctance of the Scottish, Northern Irish and Welsh football associations to embrace Team GB.

All three associations have discouraged their players from taking part in the Olympics, fearful of losing their independent status within Fifa.

"I find it saddening," the Team GB coach told Real Radio. "The bottom line is that it is down to the players.

"No-one from Fifa has said [their independence] is under threat."

He continued: "I'm not overly sure where that is coming from. I find it a little bit sad, but that's the way it is."

Players from the home nations under consideration have been contacted by the English FA - with Welsh players Aaron Ramsey and Gareth Bale both having indicated their desire to play.