Take That Back Robbie

Robbie Williams' new dance album 'Rudebox' has been given the seal of approval by none other than his old band mates, Take That.

His new disc might have hit the top spot in the album charts this week but it has been panned by critics who say his new hip hop and dance direction leaves a lot to be desired.

The long-player has also sold less in its first week of release than any of his other previous no 1 albums.

But old Take That bezzy Mark Owen said the doubters should leave Rob alone.

Talking to MTV News he said, "The album is No 1, so that's fantastic."

He went on, "I like the new direction Rob's gone in. It's good that he's doing something a little different and he's always been a fan of rap so he's doing something he's been into since he was a kid. Plus I like his track suits!"

There you go Robbie, an ardent fan!

Meanwhile humble Mark said he wasn't expecting the That's first single in ten years, 'Patience', to hit the Christmas No 1, despite chart predictions.

"We're not expecting that at all, or for it to be how it used to be. We just want the album to do well.

"We're really excited about it all and it's nice to be back on MTV - we haven't been on it for a couple of years!"

Bandmate Howard Donald chipped in, "We've been away for ten years so there might be people out there who don't accept us."

With the exception of the Arctic Monkeys, boys, we don't think you have anything to worry about...

SLJ