Bale has previously said that he would be keen to play for the united Team GB squad at the London 2012 Games, and his club manager at Tottenham Hotspur Harry Redknapp has said that he is open to the Welshman's participation.

But the FAW, along with their counterparts in Northern Ireland and Scotland, still oppose the involvement of their players in the team next year.

They believe their independence as independent football nations is at risk if their players participate as part of a joint British squad.

Stuart Pearce, confirmed as the men's manager earlier this month, said that he would look to select players from all four home nations, whilst the women's team managed by Hope Powell has a number of Scottish players who would be in contention.

Bale appears modelling the shirt for the BOA, whose spokesman told the BBC: "We have maintained all along that Team GB will allow for the consideration, and possible inclusion, of players from any of the Home Nations, so it only makes sense that Gareth would appear in the photo."

The shirt Bale appears in is a limited edition for supporters, which is due to be launched next month by Adidas, a Tier One London 2012 sponsor and the official team suppliers of Team GB. 

Adidas have confirmed that the shirt is not the official kit to be worn by Britain's football team at London 2012, which is due to be unveiled next year.

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