England National Game XI manager Paul Fairclough today called on Sussex football supporters to roar his side to Four Nations glory.

The best non-league players from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales are in action tonight as the Four Nations Tournament kicks off and Fairclough has issued a rallying cry as the favourites seek to defend the title they won 12 months ago.

England begin their campaign against Ireland at Eastbourne Borough's Priory Lane and Fairclough said: "This tournament is a real opportunity to set the tone for Germany and the World Cup.

"We have taken this England National side around the country and it has been superbly supported wherever it has been.

"Now the tournament is being held in Sussex and I am appealing for the people of the South Coast to really get behind us and cheer us on.

"We are looking at an ideal curtain-raiser for Germany and a chance for fans to get in the World Cup mood."

Fairclough says there will be plenty at stake for all the players on show during the next five days.

He said: "National pride cuts in straight away for players when they pull on the shirt of their country but this tournament is also a shop window.

"DJ Campbell of Birmingham and Reading's Kevin Doyle both played in this tournament last year and have gone on to greater things.

"Someone could get signed up by a big club straight after a game."