Olympics boss Rogge pleads with Barcelona to let Messi play

IOC president Jacques Rogge has pleaded with clubs to allow their players to compete in the Beijing Olympics football tournament after Barcelona won their case over Argentina's selection of Lionel Messi.

Along with Barca, Werder Bremen and Schalke won their cases against Brazil over their selection of Diego and Rafinha respectively.

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"We (the IOC) share your (FIFA president Sepp Blatter) feelings," said Rogge. "The IOC sets great store by the quality of the football tournament.

"You understand Mr Blatter that I cannot comment (on the ruling) as we the IOC created CAS.

"Of course I can say I am concerned. This situation will have to end.

"I have agreed with Mr Blatter we review it after the Games. I appeal to the clubs concerned (Werder Bremen, Schalke 04 and Barcelona) to leave the players (in China).

"Let them live their dream. Like Ronaldinho (who is not one of the players involved in the controversy) said it is his dream to play in the Games.

"We have to let the players realise their dream just like the basketball players and the tennis players.

"I appeal to the clubs to observe the 'Olympic truce' till after the Games.

"I am sure we can reach an agreement and that FIFA will absorb it into their international calendar. We will fight with Mr Blatter."