Gorillaz replace U2

Damon Albarn's virtual band will play at Glastonbury instead...

18:02 27 May 2010

Following their sudden cancellation at this year's Glastonbury, U2 are to be replaced by Gorillaz it has been announced.

Damon Albarn's virtual band has stepped in after U2 singer Bono had to have emergency surgery and was ordered to rest.

GlastonburyÂ’s founder and organiser, Michael Eavis, said: "This is going to be Gorillaz' only UK festival appearance, and it'll be a massive audio visual spectacle which will really ignite the Pyramid on the Friday night, with Muse, then Stevie Wonder to follow.

"I'm very excited about Gorillaz' show coming here because they're so open to guests and collaborations. The alchemy of Friday's show is going to be astonishing: a perfect, contemporary way to kick off the 40th anniversary celebrations.

"I am so grateful for the enthusiasm of the media and the whole of the music industry for their willingness and eagerness to support us in what could have been a crisis."

Gorillaz have already headlined California's Coachella festival in April and will head to Spain's Benicassim in July.

The band will join Muse and Stevie Wonder at the top of the bill with Dizzee Rascal, The Flaming Lips, Orbital, Pet Shop Boys and more due to perform at Glastonbury.