U2 don’t like to hang around. Returning with their new album ‘No Line On The Horizon’ in 2009 the band were stung by lukewarm reviews and - by their recent standards at least - a poor sales showing.

Wasting no time, the band threw themselves into studio work. Bono’s back injury aside, work has been smooth with the Irish rockers able to steam into new material.

The results are already peppering the band’s live sets. U2 are mid-way through a world tour, and have recently been performing unreleased tracks such as their Worthy Farm ode ‘Glastonbury’.

Now it seems as if U2 could release their new album as soon as Spring 2011. Speaking to the Irish Times, maverick manager Paul McGuinness explained that work on the material was progressing at a rapid pace.

“I would expect a new U2 album sooner than anybody thinks,” he said. “I would guess early 2011 before the next leg of the American tour, which starts in May.”

The album is provisionally titled ‘Songs Of Ascent’ and would represent a quickfire return - in comparison ‘No Line On The Horizon’ took four years to complete.

U2 have remained almost constantly on tour since the beginning of the year. The Irish band have debuted several new tracks, leading to widespread rumours amongst their fans concerning an album release.

Meanwhile, the band could be set to headline Glastonbury next summer. U2 were set to perform this year before dropping out after Bono was forced to endure painful back surgery. Michael Eavis has not confirmed the rumours, although the band have dropped several hints to fans.

Glastonbury 2011 is already sold out!