Team GB in 2012 - will they be at Rio?

The FA Board has been asked by other British associations to formally explain its position over a proposed Team GB in the Rio 2016 Olympic Games, Sky Sports News HQ has learned.

It is understood that Scotland and Northern Ireland have joined Wales in their condemnation of the FA's plans to enter men's and women's British teams, should they qualify.

Unlike the FAW, the SFA and Irish FA have yet to comment on the FA's intention, but officials are understood to be surprised that the FA has 'moved the goalposts' after previously indicating they would not enter a men's team.

It had been assumed that the entry of a Team GB men's team in London 2012 was a one-off, and would not be repeated in subsequent Olympic Games.

Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland are concerned that a Team GB will jeopardise their independent status as a football governing body with FIFA.

Alex Horne wrote to the other home associations in his final duty as FA general secretary, before he left the organisation earlier this year.

The FA's change in position follows the publication of an 'England DNA' philosophy, unveiled at St George's Park in December last year, which aims to 'identify and develop future England players'.

It is understood that the Welsh and Irish associations, in particular, want further clarification from the FA Board about the full reasons behind the proposal.

The Scottish FA refuses to recognise a Team GB, but will not prevent players from competing in the event.

Every British association discussed the issue near Belfast last weekend, in a separate discussion to their role as members of the International Football Association Board.

Team GB is managed by the British Olympic Association (BOA).

The FA was one of the seven founding members of the BOA in 1905.