Move over, Ryan Giggs, Team GB being kicked out of the football is the perfect opportunity to pick another team, this time with real athletes.
Usain Bolt has said that if Sir Alex Ferguson called him up “it would be impossible to say no” and the sprinter is not short of fast fellows to have a kickabout with, so here is our selection for the Olympic fantasy five-a-side football team. The only problem is they are too nice to be wasted on football.
Usain Bolt striker
He’s conquered the track, now Bolt wants to take to the football pitch. Not one to waste time being modest, the 100m sprinter, who names Dutch striker Ruud van Nistelrooy as one of his heroes, added: “I’m a very accomplished player and know I could make a difference. I’d be the fastest player, but I can play as well.” With that speed and brute force, who will catch him as he bolts past with the ball?
Greg Rutherford striker
He’s fast, he’s slick and he even shares a name with a Hartlepool United player. The sprinter was invited to trials with Aston Villa aged 14 before deciding to go for athletics. With his long limbs, the self-proclaimed “Ginger wizard” will leap across the pitch.
Mo Farah midfielder
Growing up, Mo was more interested in football than running, and his sports teacher Alan Watkinson had to bribe him with promises of Arsenal kit in exchange for getting him to run races. He’ll never stop moving, plus his endless smiles will keep up morale.
Adam Gemili defender
Having spent seven years at the Chelsea youth academy, this sprinter knows his way around a football field. He only quit the sport last December. Every team needs someone like Gemili, sharp and full of energy.
Michael Jamieson defender
The 6ft 1in Glasgow-born breaststroke expert nearly didn’t take up swimming because he was better at football. And now he’s won a silver in the pool, just imagine how good he’ll be on the pitch. He’s got form and the Old Firm on his side — his dad Michael’s a pro and the family support Celtic.
