FORMER Wales star John Hartson has called on the Welsh public to get behind the Team GB football sides at this summer’s Olympics.

The Football Association of Wales, along with their counterparts in Scotland and Northern Ireland, do not want their players to represent Great Britain because they fear losing their independent status in the international game.

And Wales aces Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey have been booed by their own fans after declaring their interest in playing at the Olympics.

Cardiff Millennium Stadium will host Stuart Pearce’s mens’ side in their crucial group game against Uruguay.

And Hope Powell’s womens’ team play in Cardiff in the very first event of the Olympics on July 25.

Organisers recently announced that only 10,000 tickets have been sold for that game – reflecting the lack of public support for the tournament.

But Hartson insists he would have proudly represented Britain in his playing days and says the whole of Wales should back the teams.

“There has been a lot of scepticism about football at the Olympics but it is time for that to end,” said the ex-Arsenal and Celtic striker.

“Sepp Blatter, the head of FIFA, has said there is no threat to Wales’ independence and that is in black and white.

“I really hope Wales fans get behind the team because it could be packed with Welsh players like Gareth Bale, Aaron Ramsey and Joe Allen.

“There is no one prouder to be Welsh than me,” he added. “But I would have been proud to have represented Great Britain – if I could have got in the team ahead of Ian Wright and Alan Shearer!

“A lot of the Welsh boys will be wondering if they will ever realistically qualify for a major tournament so this is a great opportunity for them and a great opportunity to showcase our fantastic stadium."

Hartson also believes the tournament will help Wales boss Chris Coleman as he prepares for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers, which start in September.

“Playing tournament football will be great in terms of giving the Welsh players experience," said Hartson.

“Wales have a tough group but I think Chris Coleman is the right man to take them forward and if he can get all his top players together and get them firing there may be an outside chance of getting to Brazil.”

The Millennium Stadium will host 11 football matches this summer and tickets are on public sale until Sunday.

Fans can get their tickets at www.tickets.london2012.com or on 0844 847 2012 for the Cardiff fixtures from July 25 to August 10.