Beckham and Giggs to lead Team GB at London Olympics next summer – report

New Team GB coach Stuart Pearce is set to include both Ryan Giggs and David Beckham in his squad for next summer’s Olympic Games in London, according to reports.

Former Manchester United star Beckham, 36, is set to link up with his old teammate Giggs as two of three players permitted to be in the squad above the age of 23.

The midfielder’s contract with LA Galaxy is set to expire next summer, and a host of clubs are rumoured to be interested in his signature, including Paris Saint-Germain and Queens Park Rangers.

It seems that the former England captain will get the chance to impress potential suitors by donning the Team GB shirt in London next summer.

Since Pearce’s appointment as coach earlier this week, Britain’s entry in to Olympic football next summer has caused something of a stir amongst top-flight clubs, including Manchester United and Arsenal.

Both Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger have voiced their concerns over allowing players to play in both the Olympic Games and Euro 2012, which would leave almost no time for a summer break for the likes of Aaron Ramsey, Jack Wilshere, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones.

However, Tottenham Hotspur boss Harry Redknapp gave Pearce some much-needed backing this week, claiming that he would not prevent any member of his squad from taking part if they wished.

He told Mirror Football:  “I wouldn’t stand in the way of any player that wanted to participate in the Olympics.

“It’s a great event to take part in and an honour to represent your country.

“More so because the games are being held in London. If Gareth Bale wants to play in the GB Olympic team who am I to deny him that?

“I accept that some of the players playing in the European Championship finals might have a problem so I can see the argument from some managers against their players taking part.

“But it’s such a one off event. I think you have to hope the player is sensible and take into account the physical demands being put on them. But I couldn’t categorically sit here and say I wouldn’t allow them to play. That’s not right.”