Aaron Ramsey during the London 2012 kitting out session at Loughborough University. Photo credit: PA Wire.

Aaron Ramsey insisted that he wanted to play at the Olympics

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger did not want Aaron Ramsey to play in the Olympics.

The Gunners boss did not want any of his players to play at London 2012 but the Welshman stood his ground.

“We had a meeting in which he gave his opinion and I gave mine,” he said.

“The Olympics is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, plus it is the chance to play in an international tournament, an experience I have not had.

“I’ve followed the Olympics all my life and though I did some athletics at school, I never dreamed about being an Olympic athlete and I never thought about taking part because there isn’t normally a Great Britain football team. So to be part of it and perhaps win a medal is exciting.”

The FAW had expressed concern over the implications of a unified Great Britain side for their independence but the Gunners star believes it could benefit his national side.

“We had one meeting with the FAW and they said it was up to us. They made it clear how they felt but said the ball was in our court,” Ramsey added.

“We are all mature enough to make our own decisions and we are here.

“The number of Welsh players in the squad shows how far Welsh football has come in the last few years and the experience of being involved in an international tournament can only be good for us.”