England's national anthem has long been a topic of debate, and it's time for a change. 'God Save The King' is rubbish and must be scrapped, as England already has an ideal replacement.
Why the current anthem fails
It isn't the 18th century, so why are we asking God to save our monarch anyway? There's no need to overthink this; England's national anthem is rubbish and we deserve better. Tune into any World Cup match or sporting event, and you'll mostly be treated to a pre-match rallying call that showcases a nation's collective passion and pride. For England matches, it's like watching a group of schoolchildren who have been dragged to church and forced to sing hymns from medieval times. It's boring, turgid, dull, antiquated, and above all else, it's time we changed it.
Alternatives already exist
It isn't like we're short on any alternatives. Take athletes at the Commonwealth Games, for example. Winners of a gold medal are treated to a rousing rendition of 'Jerusalem' – a song that really does make you proud to be English. The song, a musical setting of the 1804 poem by William Blake, speaks of England's 'green and pleasant land' and building a country that can be considered a 'Jerusalem', shorthand for a heaven on earth. England cricket fans will know just how powerful the song can be, and it would be the perfect candidate for a new anthem. Then there's 'Land of Hope and Glory' – a little more funky, but still emotion-stirring nonetheless.
Public opinion supports change
The people agree too. Well, at least some of them. In a recent poll conducted by Express Sport, 55 per cent of voters said YES to changing the national anthem. If Brexit taught us anything, all that matters is getting more than 50 per cent of the vote, so our poll is proof the people want a change. It isn't just the God-saving aspect that turns people off either. In 2026, is a song about the Royal Family really the best we can do? England, a nation of rich history, culture, countryside and community, but we sing about a fella and his family? It's time to move on and give England – its footballers and fans – an anthem they can be proud of.
Potential impact on national pride and performance
Who knows, if we did change it, it might be the spark the national team needs to actually win something on the pitch! A new anthem could unite the country and boost morale, providing a fresh sense of identity and purpose.
