Golan aiming for top with U21 finals' song

The great and the good of Israeli pop music have joined together to produce the official song of this summer's UEFA European Under-21 Championship: Always My Number 1.

"I approached the best songwriters, composers and arrangers in the industry," explained Eyal Golan, who was asked to write and perform the tune that will become an anthem in Israel between 5 and 18 June. "I sincerely hope that you will enjoy the outcome and I wish the Israel national team every success."

Spectators and a wider television audience will be able to decide for themselves when the 42-year-old sings the song at the final tournament's opening ceremony at the Netanya Municipal Stadium on 5 June. Golan is no stranger to performing at football grounds: he was a striker in the Israeli lower leagues before hanging up his boots in 2006 and picking up the microphone on a permanent basis.

He was already a household name in Israel and has since found further fame with a TV talent show, Eyal Golan is Calling You. He may gain more international renown with Always My Number 1, which incorporates the tournament's key values: inspiration, accessibility to all, mutual respect, entertainment and leisure.

"I was very excited when approached and asked to write and perform the song that will constitute the centrepiece for the opening ceremony of this tournament," said Golan, who sings with backing from Meital De Razon. "It is one of the biggest [sporting events] ever held in Israel."