You’d be forgiven for thinking that England football songs consist of standing up, shouting EN-GER-LAND for 90 minutes, with occasional breaks for the national anthem. However when every major tournament comes around, a song is released to hit the charts and get the nation behind our football team. Some of these songs have been immortalised, whilst others you may have forgotten (or wish you had)! So what is the best England football song? Let us know what you think!
World in Motion- New Order and Keith Allen, featuring John Barnes
Released in time for the 1990 World Cup, this song reached No.1 in the charts and lives long in the memory. John Barnes announced himself on the world stage as a lyrical miracle, with a rap halfway through the song. The video featured an England team in the “fashionable at the time” short shorts working out in a gym. Big shout out to Tony Adams and Ray Wilkins, looking good lads!
Three Lions- David Baddiel and Frank Skinner
Released for Euro 1996, Baddiel and Skinner’s contribution to the England football tournament has been immortalised. Another one to reach No.1 in the charts, the lyrics “Football’s Coming Home” are still sung at matches 20 years later. A classic song appropriately marking a classic England defeat on penalties.
Vindaloo- Fat Les
The 1998 World Cup saw the official tournament song overshadowed by a remake of Three Lions and Vindaloo. Vindaloo is synonymous with English football and is a classic sing-along. It’s also a reason as to why the English are hated when it comes to travelling abroad for football tournaments.
And a live performance…
Sven, Sven, Sven- Bell and Spurling
Never specifically released for a major tournament, Sven, Sven, Sven hit No. 7 in the charts in 2001 and commemorated a 5-1 victory over Germany. The first song on this list from the 2000s, it was a classic when first released, however listening to it now will make your toes curl.
We’re on the Ball- Ant and Dec
Released before the 2002 World Cup, the song was somewhat overshadowed by David Beckham’s injured right foot. The song reached No.3 in the charts, just a shame that England limped out in the quarter-final stage after the now infamous Ronaldinho goal.
Shout 4 England- Dizzee Rascal and James Corden
Released in both 2010 and 2012, the song is a re-make of Tears for Fears’ Shout, and the charity single went down as well as England’s performances in the tournaments.
