Concerns have been raised about the possible consequences a Team GB Olympic team could have on Wales' future independence as a football nation.

Politicians and former players have questioned the decision to reintroduce a women's squad, made up of players from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland at next year's games in Tokyo.

England were confirmed as one of the top three European teams at the Women’s World Cup, meaning automatic qualification for Team GB in Tokyo next year.

England are currently the highest ranked home nation, meaning they were the nominated country to attempt qualification.

For the London 2012 Olympics, all home nations agreed that because it was a ‘home games’, the men and women’s football teams could be entered as Team GB as a one-off.

Professor Laura McAllister told ITV Wales that England are "the only ones of the four associations that are enthusiastic about this" and said "this is an England led initiative in every sense."

Wales international Ella Powell said she disagreed with England boss Phil Neville's comments that the Team GB team will be "England-led".

Credit: PA Images

No team was entered for the Rio 2016 Games because home nations were concerned that a united British team could risk independence within FIFA.

Prof McAllister, who is Professor of Public Policy at Cardiff University, said participation in the Tokyo games next year could pose the same risk.

The former captain, told ITV Wales that if she had been selected, she would have turned the opportunity down.

"I would have turned it down... because of my emotional commitment to Wales. In football, the pinnacle was to play for Wales in a World Cup or European Championships... and therefore that occupied all of my emotional drive and motivation.

"I couldn't envisage playing for another country given my commitment to Wales."

Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics Credit: PA Images

Laura McAllister said she feels England and Team GB are seen as "synonymous".

Gwent's Labour AM Alun Davies said he agrees with that claim on the basis the English FA are taking "unilateral decisions and actions".

The FAW said it is "not supportive" of Team GB but it will not "stand in the players' way if selected. It will be their decision as individuals".