Team GB head coach Charles van Commenee has explained the decision not to pick Jenny Meadows for the women's 800m at the 2012 Olympics Games in London.

Meadows's omission from the list was perhaps the biggest surprise due to her previous performances at the top level. However, her lack of recent action was cited as the main reason.

"It was very difficult because she has a proven track record, she's an absolutely world-class athlete," he told reporters.

"However, she hasn't raced since the world championships in Daegu and not raced this year, and she had every intention to compete in Helsinki, but after travelling her Achilles reacted badly and she was not able to compete.

"That was a very important factor. The anticipation that athletes may appeal doesn't affect any decision."

The Games begin on July 27.