Festivals The Libertines play secret Pyramid Stage set at Glastonbury 2015

Whether they were whisked off from a Thailand retreat or from a waiting room where they’ve been hanging out behind Worthy Farm for yonks - it doesn’t matter. Against the odds, The Libertines are back on the most important stage in the world. A group adored by millions, their early ’00s success could see another day. Here’s the biggest test yet.

There’s been enough hurrah about Florence’s potential to headline, but are The Libs truly prepared for a comeback on this scale. Their rapturous welcome is one thing - stretching the fandom across a whole hour is another altogether.

It isn’t a struggle, but it’s an experience that’s hampered in part by odd hiccups. Thailand’s fresh sea air has had some kind of an effect - at times, it’s clear they’ve lost their zing. Peter Doherty’s microphone doesn’t want to play, screeching for the opening song. But this is a last-minute, ‘fuck it, why not’ celebration. The fact is, these heroes are back for an endless summer. ‘Can’t Stand Me Now’ is an anthem for more than one generation, and a sense of timelessness defines their return to the top. Pete’s swigging beer like there’s no tomorrow, boozy singalongs are obligatory - it’s like they’ve never been gone.