THERESA MAY was absolutely right to call out FIFA over its ludicrous decision to ban England and Scotland players from wearing poppies during a World Cup qualifier.

The two home nations have asked permission to pay tribute to the Armed Forces during the match, which happens to take place on Armistice Day.

But FIFA says such a move falls foul of its rules banning political, commercial and religious symbols. This is despite a ruling five years ago which allowed England to wear poppy armbands.

We agree with Mrs May’s assessment that FIFA's ban is both insulting and disrespectful to the millions – on all sides – who gave their lives in two world wars and many conflicts since.

In no way can a poppy be classed as a political, commercial or religious symbol. It is a matter of respect – something that has been in short supply at FIFA these past few years.

If our footballers wish to wear a poppy it is absolutely right that they should be able to do so.

In 2011, when this issue first reared its ugly head, FIFA faced criticism from a number of public figures, including Prince William.

Eventually, a compromise was reached which saw players allowed to wear black armbands with a poppy stitched on the side.

We hope common sense prevails in 2016, but FIFA has become too deeply entrenched to back down.

Everyone knows football’s world governing body doesn’t do contrition or make compromises.

In that case, we would welcome a show of defiance by the English, Scottish and Welsh football associations on November 11.

FIFA’s small-minded attitude is a reminder, should we ever need one, that some things are far more important than a mere game of football.