Britain has not qualified for the men's Olympic event for 52 years, with interest virtually non-existent for a variety of reasons including the advent of professionalism and long-established objections by the Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish associations about releasing players for fear they might lose their independent status within FIFA.

However, Giggs, who has never reached a major finals with his native Wales, hopes London 2012 will generate enough interest for Team GB to also field a squad in the future.

The Manchester United veteran has been overwhelmed by the atmosphere so far – before a ball has even been kicked.

"I hope it is not a one-off from what I have experienced so far," Giggs said.

"Of course I am Welsh and proud of it, but for me to have the chance of playing in the biggest tournament in the world right now, it has been great and I hope it continues."

Welsh officials have made it clear they will not sanction any of the five Welsh players in the 18-man squad but have also made no secret of the fact they are not happy with the principle of an all-British selection.

But Giggs is adamant he made the correct decision to accept the offer of captain.

Despite 13 league titles, the Olympic experience has already offered him something different ahead of Team GB's opening game against Senegal in the familiar surroundings of Old Trafford on July 26.


For Giggs (pictured above, right), it will represent at the age of 38 his first appearance in a major tournament following a couple of near misses with Wales in the World Cup and European Championship.

"My career for my country has obviously been the total opposite to the one for my club," said Giggs.

"I couldn't turn down the captaincy [of Team GB].

"Whether people have been English, Welsh, whatever, those I have met have wished me well and the team well.

"I hope in future Olympics there will be more Great Britain teams.

"I hope fellow British footballers can experience the same thing in the future.

"I am not sure I would lobby anyone, I am not a politician but I hope we carry on in the future.

"Even in the first few days together I've seen things that I haven't seen in my career."

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