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Bayern Munich have told defenders Lucio and Martin Demichelis that they will not be allowed to represent their respective countries at this summer’s Olympic games in China.

Both players had been targeted as over-age players for the Beijing Olympiad but Bayern bosses have decided to block their participation in order that they won’t miss the start of next season’s Bundesliga season.

"The World Cup is a tournament for these players, not the Olympics" Bayern manager Uli Hoeneß explained.

"The Olympics is only for players under the age of 23."

Olympic rules allow for three players over the age of 23 to be included in each nation's squad. However, Hoeneß has stated that the club have absolutely no intention of allowing two of their defensive lynchpins to miss vital matches at the start of the season.

Dutch midfielder Mark van Bommel has already been told to forget representing Holland, but the likes of Jose Ernesto Sosa and Breno could be permitted to play for their countries in the summer tournament as they are only fringe players with Bayern.

Meanwhile, Lucio's season is over after the Brazilian underwent surgery on a thigh injury, meaning he will have to rest for at least two weeks.

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Goal.com - Bayern Munich - Lucio And Demichelis Barred From Olympics