Stevens on song

England prop Matt Stevens has released his own version of team anthem ’The Gambler’ ahead of tomorrow’s World Cup final against South Africa.

The track was originally made famous in 1978 by country singer Kenny Rogers and has been adopted as a team favourite during the World Cup.

Stevens, who is on the England bench for tomorrow’s clash in Paris, recorded the version last year during his appearances on ITV1’s Celebrity X-Factor.

And he has decided to release it on the eve of the World Cup final to raise money for charity.

Stevens said: “I often bring my guitar on the team bus for a sing-song and this track became a favourite with the boys, who love to join in the chorus.

“The team soon adopted it and it is now something we sing in the changing room. It is also one of the few songs the team can actually sing in key!

“This has always been one of my favourite songs. I didn’t get to sing it on the show and not long after I decided to record it with a view to helping raise money for charity.”

The song is available to download from iTunes today, with proceeds going to the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund and a second children’s charity of the England team’s choosing.

Rogers recorded the England team a good luck message after hearing his song had become a changing-room favourite.

And download sales of the original version have rocketed since England reached the final.

The lyrics – originally about a gambler down on his luck – have proved particularly apt as England bounced back from a 36-0 pool defeat to the Springboks to reach the final.

Reigning champions England tackle South Africa tomorrow to become the first team to retain the World Cup.