Stuart Pearce 'to be named GB Olympic coach'

The England under-21 coach has long been the favourite for the job (REUTERS)

Stuart Pearce is expected to be confirmed as Great Britain's 2012 Olympic coach this month.

Although the Football Association would not comment on the speculation this morning, it is understood they have decided Pearce is the right man for the job.

He is certainly the most obvious candidate given he has coached the England Under-21 side since 2007, taking them to three major European Championship Finals.

This summer's disappointing performance in Denmark cast a cloud over Pearce's stewardship, although he was subsequently awarded a new two-year contract, covering the Olympic period.

He also, of course, has playing experience at major tournaments with England.

Even once Pearce's appointment is confirmed, uncertainty will remain over the exact make-up of the British team.

The British Olympic Association are desperate to field an authentic side at the event and earlier this year released a statement, in conjunction with the FA, stating they had reached agreement with the other Home Unions to do exactly that.

This was quickly rebutted by the Welsh, Scottish and Northern Irish Football Associations, who fear the dilution of the Home Unions' status within FIFA should they join forces with their English counterparts.

Grudgingly, they have agreed to the participation of a squad made up of English players only, although accept they would be powerless to prevent any of their own players taking up an invitation should it be offered.

The matter is further complicated by the pledge of FA director of football development Sir Trevor Brooking that any player involved at Euro 2012 will not be asked to be part of the Olympics as well.

However, that was before the shock elevation of Manchester United players Tom Cleverley, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling to the senior squad.

Pearce knows their absence from an Under-23 team which can also include three over-age players - former England skipper David Beckham has already declared an interest - would have an adverse effect on Britain's chances of being able to field a competitive team.

No decision has been made on who will coach the women's side, although Hope Powell has long been viewed as the leading candidate.