Joe Marler said he took inspiration from Albion after his bizarre headed ‘assist’ for an England try at the Rugby World Cup.

The powerful prop from Sussex helped his nation beat Japan 34-12 in Nice in their second group game.

A pass hit him on the head and bounced perfectly for Courtney Lawes to score at a time when England were leading just 13-12 and struggling for a breakthrough.

Marler said: "I take huge inspiration from Roberto De Zerbi and his mighty Seagulls, who did a demolition job on United yesterday.

 

“I’ve taken huge inspiration from them and finding a way to help the boys score.”

It was unclear how serious Marler was as he gave his answer with a straight face but he tweeted today: “I wasn’t joking!”

Although the ball went forward for Lawes to score, the fact it came off Marler’s head rather than hands meant it was not a knock-on.

Albion would love similar success when they head to the south of France to face Marseille in little more than a fortnight’s time.

England started their campaign at Stade Velodrome but will be at the other end of the country, between two fixtures at Lille, by the time Albion head to Marseille.

Marler named Seagulls skipper Lewis Dunk as his favourite sportsman in a social media clip ahead of the World Cup.