Unsigned football talent gets Olympic chance

"Failed" football and rugby players are being invited to switch their talents to another sport and represent Britain at the 2012 Olympics.

Players who have been released by their clubs will be urged to join the Pitch2Podium scheme launched today by elite funding agency UK Sport to boost the performance of Team GB at the London Games.

It follows on from UK Sport's Sporting Giants, which last year tested unusually tall athletes and identified potential Olympians in volleyball, handball and rowing.

Pitch2Podium ambassador Darren Campbell, who had a trial with Plymouth Argyle FC before he switched to athletics and won Olympic gold, said: "This could be a natural choice for players who do not secure a professional contract." The Professional Footballers' Association gives grants for players to attend the training camps.

England U21 coach Stuart Pearce said: "For any sportsman to be told they won't make it is difficult. This is a fantastic way to give hope."