Gavin is still getting over the disappointment of being sent home on the eve of the Beijing Olympics because he could not make the 60k lightweight limit.

 

The world amateur champion has not competed since but is due to take part in the European Championships in Liverpool next month.

 

After he has competed in that tournament he will make a decision about whether to accept one of the offers he has received to turn professional.

 

If he does not compete in the match announced today at the National Indoor Arena (NIA) on December 19 it would be a big disappointment to his supporters in Birmingham, who will be watching the first international staged in the city for 20 years.

 

Gavin said: “My future is in the balance at the moment but I would be thrilled to represent England against Germany in Birmingham.

 

“It is a fantastic match and for it to be at the NIA adds the cream to the cake.

 

"Hopefully the England team will also include Khalid and Gamal Yafai from the Birmingham City club, who will be hoping to be selected for the Olympics.

 

“This match will effectively be the first step on the road to London in 2012 and an England versus Germany international at any sport is sure to be a big attraction.”

 

The match is being arranged by the Amateur Boxing Assocation of England (ABAE) in conjunction with promoters Ben and Peter Plevey and Birmingham City Council.

 

The ABAE's chief executive Paul King said: “We decided to put major events such as England v Germany out to tender to entrepreneurial promoters and we were happy to do business with Ben Plevey.

 

“This is intended to be the first of many such events.”

 

Plevey said: “This is a fantastic opportunity.

 

"Birmingham is a fighting city and there will be great support, especially with so many Brummies in the England team.

 

“It’s their chance to beat Germany and make great strides towards getting to the London Olympics.

 

“I am planning for this to be just the start of amateur boxing being recognised as a major sport in the city.

 

"This is not just a one-off.”

 

The event coincides with the popular annual German Christmas Market staged in Birmingham's Victoria Square.

 

Birmingham City Council spokesman said: Mike Osbourne said:” We want more of this type of event and are helping make it a success.”