CASEY STONEY vented her frustration yesterday over the continued interference of politics in sport and the refusal to enter a women’s GB team at the 2016 Olympics.

Stoney was part of the England team which finished third at the World Cup in Canada, a feat which qualified them for the Olympics next year.

But Northern Ireland, Wales and Scotland’s continued reluctance to participate means that Stoney is highly unlikely to get another chance of leading a team out in Rio.

Great Britain did enter a team for the London 2012 games but agreed that it would be a one-off, though Stoney believes this stance will hold back the women’s game.

Stoney said in a blog posted on The Mixed Zone website: “I get so annoyed when politics interferes with sport. I don’t think it ever should. The Home Nation FA’s should take a look at themselves.

“If Fifa guaranteed them in writing that they wouldn’t lose independence, as the world’s governing body did for London 2012, why can’t we send a GB women’s team to compete in Rio? We did more than enough to qualify.

“It would build the profile and quality of our game at a crucial time. It would give Northern Irish, Scottish and Welsh players — including Kim Little, one of the best players in the world — the opportunity to play in a major tournament they wouldn’t otherwise have.

“When I think about what London 2012 did for us — and, yes, I know it was a home Olympics — it really did raise the profile of the sport and changed perceptions forever.

“We’re in danger of missing that opportunity again — just because of politics. As a player I don’t understand it. Why can’t we get these people round a table? Why can’t something be done to change the decision?

“Fair enough if the men’s team doesn’t go. Do they need it? No. But for our sport, it’s a massive opportunity. We’re missing out on the chance to grow the sport.”

Stoney went on to question whether the other nations are interested in raising the profile of women’s game.

“I have to ask whether the Home Nation FAs — excluding England — really want to build the women’s game. I know how much my GB teammate, Kim Little gained from the experience of playing in the Olympics. So it really annoys me to see another opportunity go to waste.”