From PAUL JIGGINS
Last Updated: 26th July 2012
SEPP BLATTER wants to ban Gareth Bale from playing during the Olympics as punishment for his Team GB snub.
The Spurs star pulled out of London 2012 through injury, then played on his club’s US tour.
FIFA chief Blatter said: “If a club does not release a player then this association can come to FIFA and we will then ban this player during the Olympics.
“So far nobody has come to us but it is a possibility we could ban these players if they are not at the disposal of the national team.”
If Bale was to be banned, he would miss the remainder of Tottenham’s pre-season programme — but would be available for their Premier League opener at Newcastle on August 18.
The winger showed no signs of the back problem that caused him to pull out of Team GB as he starred for Spurs in their 1-1 draw at LA Galaxy in the early hours yesterday.
Bale headed an 18th-minute opener and played for 73 minutes before being subbed.
The Welshman said: “My rehab’s gone very well at the club.
“We are well ahead of schedule and I am glad to be back.”
But England legend Gary Lineker tweeted: “Once in a lifetime opportunity thrown away. Baffled.”
Video : Modric back in Spurs training
