Sussex trio Joe Blann, Sam Costello and Matthew Sleep have missed out on selection for the England under-16s team.

Centre Joe Blann and second row Sam Costello, both Cardinal Newman, Hove, and fullback Matthew Sleep (Chichester High), were hoping to follow in the footsteps Dan Rosen (Hove Park), who came through last year.

Sussex manager Martin Mandelbaum said: "They worked hard for three days in atrocious conditions and played well, so were disappointed not to make it.

"But it does highlight the problems this county has.

"We haven't got any big clubs or schools for the players to play top-line rugby all the time. Dan managed to raise his level enough last year, but it is hard."

The trio now go with the London and South East squad for specialist coaching at Millfield School in the west country at Easter."

Chichester High fly-half Danny Gray will bid for a place in the English Schools' under-18s squad in final trials at Castlecroft this weekend.

Sussex under-18s manager Mike Beckwith said: "It's Danny's big chance and we all hope he takes it. We wish him well."

Left-wing Dipo Isho and No.8 David Edmed, both Cardinal Newman, Hove, and right-wing Mark Barnard (Lewes Tertiary College), compete for the London and South East Division Club side against Harlequins at Thurrock on Sunday.

They were part of the Clubs' team that recently defeated Northmpton.

Their England trials are from February 7 to 9 at Castlecroft.