Managers of 31 football clubs have backed the campaign for a new stadium for Division Two champions Brighton and Hove Albion.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, Leeds United manager David O'Leary, Arsenal's Arsene Wenger and Bobby Robson at Newcastle United are among those who have sent messages to the Falmer for All campaign.

The message which summed up the mood of support more than any other came from Steve Coppell, manager of Albion's close Division Two rivals Brentford.

In a hand-written letter, Coppell said: "Every effort should be made to protect the future of such a proud club, so vital to the local community.

"Wishing you the best of luck in acquiring a permanent home and assuring you of my full support."

Sir Alex, in his letter, said: "May I take this opportunity to offer you the very best of luck for your plan for Falmer community stadium."

O' Leary said: "I know how precious a football club is to the local community and I wish you every success in securing a home."

Plans were submitted to Brighton and Hove City Council last October for a community stadium at Village Way North and Village Way South, Falmer. They are still under scrutiny.

Other managers to give their support include: Steve McMahon, of Blackpool FC; Sean O'Driscoll, of AFC Bournemouth; Alan Curbishley, of Charlton Athletic; Andrew Pincher, club secretary of Cambridge United; Steve Cotterill, manager of Cheltenham Town FC and former Albion Striker; Steve Whitton, of Colchester United; Roland Nilsson, of Coventry City FC; Dario Gradi, of Crewe Alexandra; Trevor Francis, of Crystal Palace FC; Chris Turner, of Hartlepool United FC; George Burley; of Ipswich Town FC; Paul Brush, of Leyton Orient FC; Kevin Keegan, of Manchester City FC; Kevin Broadhurst, of Northampton Town FC; Nigel Worthington, of Norwich City FC; Gary Brazil, of Notts County FC; Barry Fry, of Peterborough United FC; Brian Horton, boss of Port Vale FC and Albion legend; Ronnie Moore, of Rotherham United FC; Brian Talbot, of Rushden & Diamonds FC; Neil Warnock, of Sheffield United FC; Terry Yorath, of Sheffield Wednesday FC; Walsall's chief executive Roy Whalley; Terry Byrne, general manager of Watford FC; Terry Burton, of Wimbledon FC; and Denis Smith, of Wrexham FC.