Ex-England goalkeeper David Seaman believes Olympic football should be played by amateur footballers only and claimed he would not have represented Great Britain.

Seaman, who called time on his playing career in 2004, was capped 75 times by his country and played in two World Cups, as well as Euro 96 on English soil.

"If you get the option it's a big decision. Obviously representing Great Britain would be a massive honour, but I was a professional for 22 years and I don't think I would have done it," he told BBC Sport.

Professional footballers did not have the option of competing in the Olympics prior to 1984 and Great Britain have not been represented in the football tournament since 1960.

Interest is high this year, however, with London hosting the games. David Beckham has openly spoken of his desire to captain the Olympic side and is in line for an over-age Team GB place.

Under tournament rules, Britain boss Stuart Pearce can select three over-age players in a squad largely made up of Under-23s. Pearce’s side will face Senegal, United Arab Emirates and Uruguay in the group phase.

Seaman does not think players like Beckham should be up for consideration.

"I don't think it's for professional footballers - I've always felt it should be left to the amateurs and I'll stand by that," he added.

Despite his belief on the football aspect of the Games, the 48-year-old admitted he is looking forward to London 2012.

"The atmosphere is going to be similar to a World Cup for me, which was the ultimate. The Olympic Games is the ultimate for the athletes and it's a great thing to be involved in," Seaman said.

 Those partking in olympic bets may not agree with Seaman's prognosies and Betfred have received a number of punts on Beckham captaining England.