ALF RAMSEY is boycotting the European Championship finals as a protest about being snubbed for the opening ceremony.

Ramsey (76), who guided England to the 1966 World Cup, has gone to America to visit his daughter and is not planning to return until Euro 96 is over.

Ramsey wanted the English FA to parade his victorious side before the Wembley crowd at England's opening match against Switzerland on June 8th.

In an interview in today's Daily Mirror, Ramsey said: "I have not been invited to Euro 96. I would have liked to have been involved but it would seem we have been overlooked and forgotten. I have three loves in my life - my wife, my country and football."

FA media spokesman Alec McGivan said: "We were led to believe he was unwell."

Former Republic of Ireland manager Jack Charlton said: "Alf is the finest manager this country has produced. He should be treated like royalty, not snubbed. This country owes him a debt that can never be repaid. He put English soccer on the map for ever. I modelled my managerial career on him - I went my own way and ignored the rest.