Fury as Fifa BANS England and Scotland from WEARING POPPIES during match on Armistice Day

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England and Scotland players will not adorn poppies on their shirts

Furious war veterans blasted the heartless decision by the sport’s governing body, which claims the symbol of commemorating those who have died in battle is too political.

But FA chiefs have also been lambasted for reportedly failing to challenge the Fifa ruling for next Friday’s crucial game.

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England last celebrated Armistice Day against Spain in 2011

Who are Fifa? A bunch of people who make a hell of a lot of money and turn round and treat people like cattle

Simon Weston

Falklands veteran Simon Weston called on the FA to go against the ruling and wear poppies, which could incur a fine.

He told the Sun: “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.

“Who are Fifa? A bunch of people who make a hell of a lot of money and turn round and treat people like cattle. How dare they?”

The Three Lions’ crunch tie with Scotland takes place just two days before Remembrance Sunday and the FA has reportedly asked Fifa if they can play a rendition of the Last Post and a two-minute silence.

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FA chiefs have been criticised for reportedly not standing up to Fifa

The last England match to fall close to Remembrance Sunday was a 1-0 friendly victory against Spain in 2011.

Poppies did not appear on the players’ shirts but after lengthy negotiations between the FA and Fifa, the flower did appear on black armbands.

A Royal British Legion spokesman said: “We see no reason why the poppy should be banned as it is not a political symbol.”

The FA said it is “working closely” with the Royal British Legion again this year on how to honour the armed forces.

And a Fifa spokesman confirmed the organisation was “in contact with the FA over the issue” but is yet to release a statement on the ban.