Sir Alex Ferguson seems concerned to protect his players' fitness during the London 2012 Olympic Games. Therefore, most of his squad members will not be available for selection. However, he is willing to make one exception for veteran Ryan Giggs.
The Welsh winger/midfielder has been a victim of playing for Wales. Most people would agree that he has been fantastic for the Premier League over the years. Ferguson clearly understands how important his experience is.
It is amazing to think that the player is still playing top-flight football at the tender age of 38. However, Ferguson is a canny manager and knows that he still has plenty to offer. How many other managers would have dispensed of Giggs when he was approaching 35?
The Manchester United manager understands that the player's career is drawing to a close and hasn't been able to show off his skills in a major international tournament. It is up to some debate if the Olympic football tournament will offer that opportunity. But at the very least, it is a unique opportunity and Ferguson is right to offer the chance to Giggs.
However, it is somewhat disappointing that he is not extending that unique opportunity to other members of his squad. I understand that Premier League managers have the option to refuse their players permission to play.
Nevertheless, it is a matter of some debate if they are really the ones that should be making that call. I think that any player that wants to play at London 2012 should have the option to do so. It may not be seen as such a big deal for nations that regularly appear at the Olympic Games, but the British team is a truly unique opportunity.
As we know, there hasn't been a British football squad appearing in the Olympic Games for a long time. We prefer to play out football as separate nations of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. So, the opportunity to blend a squad together of those nations is exciting.
Things have an added spice to them by the Olympic Games being in London. These sort of opportunities only come around occasionally. So, I wonder how the Manchester United players will feel about being denied the opportunity.
It makes sense that Stuart Pearce will want to put a team together of the best players. His hands have already been tied by being unable to pick England players that will be involved at Euro 2012. Therefore, the latest restrictions will come as a big blow.
However, he will be pleased to utilize Giggs, and I am sure the Welshman will be delighted to be part of Team GB at the London 2012 Games.
James Kent is an all-round sports fan, takes a keen interest in the Olympic Games, and Olympic sports; he will be hoping for a great medal return from Team GB in London. Follow James on Twitter and Facebook.
