The world record holder, who is a member of the London 2012 Board as well as being a commentator for BBC Television, said in an interview published in The Independent today that he is not sure how important it is that Britain achieves its "aspirational target" of fourth place in four years.

 

He said: "Going from 10th in 2004 to fourth sounds like too big a jump.

 

"Which sports are going to make that up?

 

"Not track and field.

 

"We've already got the best cyclists in the world, and the rowers are doing great, so where are we going to get the extra medals?"

 

"I'm not sure it's that important."

 

Coe, a former team-mate of Edwards', has in the past said that he believed the 2012 Olympics would be defined by the big moments that will be seared onto the public's memories, like when Australian Cathy Freeman won the 400 metres at the 2000 Sydney Games in Edwards. 

 

Edwards said: "As long as we get 10 superstars over the two weeks in 2012, that will be enough to capture the imagination of the British public and ensure the Olympics are seen as a success."

 

To read the full article visit http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/olympics/news-and-features/an-email-conversation-with-jonathan-edwards-884268.html.