New Order’s World in Motion is an admittedly brilliant track, but has some illogical lyrics in the cold light of day, with some fairly cringeworthy tactical advice – “You’ve got to hold and give, but do it at the right time” – wedged in to give it a football ‘edge’. Older England songs that have matured with age bear little actual believable relevance to the game itself. “The flags of St George are flying all around me…” – Heart of Football editor Simon Toye It takes you right back to the games listening to the same words. It tells a story – a standard one for an England fan, promise and then disappointment – and it takes you along for the ride. An original and then a sequel that focuses on the next tournament yet also reflects on the previous. “That’s probably part of the longevity of it too – two versions, both as good as each other. An updated version was recorded for France ‘98, which embellished the success further. Ian Broudie’s perfectly timed tea bags thrown into the cups, Geoff Hurst’s cameo in the pub, iconic clips of commentary and moments – both tragic and celebratory – drag you into the story. There are so many visual elements to the track that enhance the mood. Without getting too technical about the musical structure, it is a wonderfully balanced track that mimics the swell of a crowd breathing the ebb and flow of a tense encounter, building erratically but inevitably towards a powerfully uplifting burst of pride and hope. So what is it that makes the Lightning Seeds’ collaboration with David Baddiel and Frank Skinner hit the spot so perfectly? Just a catchy tune isn’t enough. Have they been wasted though? Listen to the iconic terrace song, and England fans will find your answer. Thirty years of hurt have almost doubled. Every tournament is the same – “This could be our year!” – and yet 1966 remains the only tangible reward. Take the rose-tinted glasses away, and what’s left? Still a game, but some part of the spirit will have gone.Įnglish media have an unerring habit of building up players and teams only to knock them down again in destructive fashion. ![]() One of the reasons we love this sport is the tapestry of emotions woven into every snapshot we’re given – from a packed out Wembley to a drenched Moss Lane with pie and chips steaming.
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