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War veterans have condemned international football chiefs for refusing to allow the England team to wear poppies on their shirts when they play Spain next Saturday.
The Football Association had wanted players to display the Armistice Day emblem on their kit on the eve of Remembrance Sunday, but Fifa rules mean no changes can be made to official kit.
George Batt, general secretary of the Normandy Veterans Association, condemned the decision, describing it as "disgraceful".
The 86-year-old, who fought in the Second World War, said: "I don't really understand it. I can't see any harm in wearing a poppy. You surely don't need rules and regulations in Fifa like this. It's so sad.
"I would think about 90% of the population wear them. I'm lost for words. I think it's a bit childish because, after all is said and done, if it wasn't for us blokes Fifa wouldn't be here. They wouldn't be playing football.
Despite the decision the squad will wear poppies on their kit on Armistice Day when they train at Wembley ahead of the match, the FA said. The special training kit will then be auctioned for charity.
A spokesman said: "The FA are proud supporters of our armed forces and we are only too pleased to recognise those that have sacrificed their lives for the nation.
I was going to add to earlier thread about the countrys situation!!!,Its about time we (england) grew some more f**king balls.look at the shit greece are causing cause they aint singing off the same song sheet.
The Football Association had wanted players to display the Armistice Day emblem on their kit on the eve of Remembrance Sunday, but Fifa rules mean no changes can be made to official kit.
George Batt, general secretary of the Normandy Veterans Association, condemned the decision, describing it as "disgraceful".
The 86-year-old, who fought in the Second World War, said: "I don't really understand it. I can't see any harm in wearing a poppy. You surely don't need rules and regulations in Fifa like this. It's so sad.
"I would think about 90% of the population wear them. I'm lost for words. I think it's a bit childish because, after all is said and done, if it wasn't for us blokes Fifa wouldn't be here. They wouldn't be playing football.
Despite the decision the squad will wear poppies on their kit on Armistice Day when they train at Wembley ahead of the match, the FA said. The special training kit will then be auctioned for charity.
A spokesman said: "The FA are proud supporters of our armed forces and we are only too pleased to recognise those that have sacrificed their lives for the nation.
I was going to add to earlier thread about the countrys situation!!!,Its about time we (england) grew some more f**king balls.look at the shit greece are causing cause they aint singing off the same song sheet.
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