England turned to The Beatles ahead of the World Cup – because they too are hoping to ‘conquer’ America.
The FA released a Fab Four-inspired squad unveiling on social media, with John Lennon opening proceedings by declaring that his group are ‘jolly English, actually’.
Daily Mail Sport understands the idea stemmed from a desire to follow in the path of the legendary Liverpudlians by delivering staggering success across the Atlantic as they did in the 1960s. And they were left delighted when the project was given the thumbs-up by the remaining members of the band.
According to those with knowledge of the situation, the task faced by the FA’s marketing department was to provide an element of the ‘brotherhood’ that head coach Thomas Tuchel has often spoken about creating within his squad as they seek to lift the trophy for the first time since 1966.
While not wanting to venture into politics, officials also wanted to recognise the power of the England football team to unite the nation during a World Cup, especially during challenging times.
And without wanting to appear too confident or cocky, the Beatles’ incredible success that earmarked the British invasion was also a consideration.
The FA released a Fab Four-inspired squad unveiling on social media, with John Lennon opening proceedings by declaring that his group are ‘jolly English, actually’
It is thought that FA marketeer Greg Sullivan was influential in the project – which needed the backing of the remaining Beatles and their families.
Apple Corps, founded in 1968 as a record label and broader creative enterprise tied directly to the group, now works across the band’s interests, including publishing, merchandise, film and licensing.
They gave the project the green light, and were delighted with the end result with the film, which was directed by Keane Pearce Shaw, along with his business partner Pete Martin.
The video, released last month, opened with a clip of Lennon during their famous 1964 US tour in which he is asked if he thinks The Beatles are very English. ‘I think we’re jolly English, actually,’ he responds. The iconic intro to Come Together then kicks in as a fan runs down a London street wearing an England jersey.
The names of each player in the 26 are then illustrated via a variety of Beatles-esque cartoons.
Fans were quick to hail the video, which saw staff working through the night on the eve of the announcement to ensure the names of every player were included.
An FA spokesperson said: ‘We were proud and delighted to work with Apple Corps on this exciting partnership. It is great to have the support of the Beatles families and we wanted to deliver something which can bring the nation together as the song “Come Together” so aptly describes.’
