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Three Lions, the greatest ever England song has been reinvented, reworked and re-recorded by Robbie, Russell Brand and a superstar line-up of friends.

Named 3 Lions 2010, an excited Robbie said of the single, "I've always been approached to write football songs but have always declined as I thought Three Lions could never be beaten - so I am really happy to be part of this record. I am counting down the days until the start of the World Cup."

The song, originally a fan anthem during Euro 96 in England, certainly ticks all the right boxes: not only does it feature a certain Mr. Williams, it also was recorded at the world-famous Abbey Road Studios, includes a full orchestra and choir and was produced by legendary Trevor Horn - who, of course, also produced Reality Killed The Video Star.

Horn said of the footy single: “It had to be done – I am either the brave one or the foolish one who said I will have a go… I did it for England!”

Staying true to its roots, 3 Lions 2010 features Ian Broudie, of The Lightning Seeds, and comedy duo David Baddiel and Frank Skinner, the three original creators of the 1996 version.

Broudie explained that the English fans are the reason behind The Squad re-recording the classic, saying "the public really wanted a new version of 3 Lions and after 14 years it felt like the right time to have a new recording but it had to be just right. When I hear this version… I can't wait for the World Cup to start!"

The single also features both The Official England Band and fans from The Official England Supporters Club, as well commentary from the inimitable John Motson and rousing, hair-on-end operatics by supreme soprano Olivia Safe.

Take a listen to a short clip of 3 Lions 2010 here

3 Lions 2010 is released on 16th May 2010, so be sure to fire up iTunes this Sunday to download your copy and then head back to RobbieWilliams.com early next week for more 3 Lions 2010 news!

RW.com