Fifa ban Scotland players from wearing poppies on shirts

FIFA are banning Scotland and England players from wearing poppies on their shirts for the World Cup qualifier next week.

Scotland and England football players have been banned from wearing poppies on their shirts

Football’s governing body has ruled that the symbol is a political statement, sparking a major row.

Senior figures at the organisation have not released an official statement about the decision.

Falklands veteran Simon Weston said football associations in Scotland and England should not bow to Fifa’s demands, even if it means having to pay a fine.

He said: “The FAs of both Scotland and England should stand up and be counted.

“Both those countries took part in both World Wars and should take the lead. They should pay any fine Fifa has to give them. This is not a political gesture.”