England will wear poppies on their black armbands during Saturday's friendly international with Spain after the FA reached an agreement with FIFA.
Agreement reached between FA and FIFA
England will wear poppies on their black armbands during Saturday's friendly international with Spain after the Football Association reached an agreement with FIFA.
Fabio Capello's side had wanted to wear the remembrance symbol embroidered on their shirts for the Wembley clash with the World and European champions this weekend.
But officials from FIFA had blocked their request as they do not allow political or religious statements on match shirts and told the FA that it could "open the door to similar initiatives" across the world.
That stance led to widespread condemnation with Prime Minister David Cameron and Prince William, in his role as president of the FA, both contacting FIFA to voice their concern.
However, following further consultation between the FA and world football's governing body, an agreement has now been reached which has been accepted by all parties.
Visible
A statement from the FA read: "The FA can confirm that FIFA has today agreed that the England team will now be permitted to wear a poppy on the black armbands the players will wear during Saturday's match with Spain.
"While continuing to adhere to the Laws of the Game, wearing the poppy on the armband does ensure the poppy will be visible throughout the game.
"The FA welcomes FIFA's decision and thanks them for agreeing to this.
"Earlier today, The FA announced extensive additional plans as to how they will support Royal British Legion in the wearing of the poppy."
The Football Association of Wales have also confirmed that they will wear black armbands with the poppy on them for their match with Norway.
And Scotland will adopt a similar stance for their clash with Cyprus on Friday evening, subject to approval from the Cypriot FA.
Delighted
The Duke of Cambridge is "happy" that FIFA has now allowed the England football team to wear a poppy on their black armbands during Saturday's match with Spain, St James's Palace said shortly after the announcement.
And a Downing Street spokesman said Cameron welcomed the decision, saying: "It's a sensible way forward."
A Royal British Legion spokesman said: "The Royal British Legion is delighted that England players will be able to wear their poppy with pride.
"As we said earlier today, there are other ways of honouring the poppy than wearing it on your shirt - the armband will do nicely. Now everyone can concentrate on enjoying the game."