Fat Neck

Out on penalties. Again.

I'm not sure I liked Black Grape that much, although the first album had its moments. 1996 single Fat Neck was a tribute to Karl Power, who specialised in sneaking into major sporting events- he walked up to the crease padded up for England at cricket, got onto court at Wimbledon and lined up for United away in a Champions League tie (see above, far left. See also Roy Keane, far right, who has spotted him. Run, Karl, run). Did he play last night? Fat Neck also has Johnny Marr on guitar.

Fat Neck

England's Irie

Tonight England play Italy in the quarter finals of Euro 2012. The team has already surpassed expectations by not being total shite. At 7.45 tonight they will either be outclassed or turn this into one of English football's great adventures. And then lose on penalties.

At Euro '96, the last time they made a semi-final, Shaun Ryder's Black Grape provided an unofficial anthem- England's Irie. It is notable for three things; one, it's pretty good; two, Shaun performs a verse which goes 'I'm spectating, my wife's lactating, it's a football thing'; three, this was Joe Strummer's only Top Of The Pops performance.

E For England.

This Time? Nope, Shouldn't Think So

Let's be honest, the England team haven't exactly won our devotion during recent tournaments. Then there's the whole John Terry business. Still, I'll be turning on the telly tonight...