Tuesday, March 15 2005, 19:11 GMT -- by Daniel Saney
Brian May and Roger Taylor have spoken about Robbie Williams' near-inclusion in the legendary band's new line-up.
While Queen are set to embark on a tour with Paul Rodgers on lead vocals, there was a time where the Angels singer was mooted to play the role.
According to May and Taylor in an interview with Capital Gold, Williams approached them over the possibility after working with them on a re-recording of We Are The Champions for movie A Knight's Tale.
Drummer Taylor explained: "I think America appealed to him and he... I think he was sort of quite keen on the idea at one point, and it did seem like a good idea.
"And then I think we all sort of drew back a little - thought about it a little harder, and then thought 'Maybe not', you know."
Brian May added: "We got close with Robbie... yeah. Absolutely. Yeah, we talked to him, but not in an auditioning kinda way. We just thought 'Wouldn't it be fun if we did something'.
"We kind of talked about it and talked about it and came close but..."
The Queen tour with Paul Rodgers will feature Queen's hits along with songs from Rodgers' bands Bad Company and Free. link