GLASTONBURY Festival organisers say they will attempt to book U2 for a future gig after the Irish band were forced to pull out of this year’s event.

The band were scheduled to headline the 40th anniversary of the event on Friday, June 25, but cancelled because lead singer Bono suffered a back injury.

U2, who have never played Glastonbury, will be replaced by former Blur front man Damon Albarn and Gorillaz.

Speaking to The Irish Post, the Glastonbury organisers said: “They’ve never played here before and we’re very disappointed they can’t perform, but they could well be back next year or the year after that.”

The withdrawal of a major international act is unusual for an event which has become the Christmas Day of the British music calendar.

A spokesman for Glastonbury said: “The one that springs to mind is Kylie Minogue’s withdrawal in 2005 because of breast cancer. She was replaced by Basement Jaxx.”

In 1995, The Stone Roses were forced to cancel after guitarist John Squire broke a collarbone. They were replaced by Pulp who made full use of the opportunity. “They got great acclaim,” said the spokesman. “That gig pushed them and Jarvis Cocker into the limelight.”