Fairclough, who is also last week took on the full-time managerial reigns at Barnet, and a member of Arsenal's scouting team, is "confident" that England can triumph at the tournament which takes place in Scotland.

He said: "I'm very confident of winning it although we know that it will be extremely difficult. Last year the Scots really tested us and held us to a draw and now this year they will have the added advantage of playing on their home patch."

Fairclough replaced John Owens as England's Manager last January and guided his side to victory at last season's tournament in Wales. This season however, he is expecting a tougher task if England are to remain champions.

He said: "I think Scotland will have the best chance of beating us, they will run and chase every ball and have home support. Also we know that the Welsh are physically strong and have some very good players and the Irish like to pass it about."

The competition lasts for a week, meaning that the teams have to play a match every two days but Fairclough believes his squad is capable of coping with the pressure and the gruelling schedule.

"I've picked a strong physical side," he said. "Because having experienced what it was like last time you do have to have a lot of mental toughness. It is a physically demanding week for the players because the games come thick and fast and it is also on the back of a long season."

When Fairclough announced his original, squad he included seven players who received their first call-ups, but he does not think that their inexperience will hinder England's chances.

He added: "The side that I select is certainly good enough for the English Second or Third Division. There is a nucleus developing at the moment but we keep our minds open to new players such as Danny McDonnell the Worcester City goalkeeper."

Away from his role with England, Fairclough steered Barnet into the play-offs while also continuing his role as a scout for Arsene Wenger. Fairclough took over at Underhill after Martin Allen left for Brentford,  but despite his busy schedule he believes he is able to fulfil both managerial posts.

He said: "It has been quite easy because the England squad was picked in my head before I took over at Barnet. I would not have even contemplated managing at the club if there was going to be clashes of interest."

Earlier today, Paul confirmed his squad for tonight's first game against the Republic of Ireland at Deveronvale FC:

England Starting XI

Matt Baker, Peter Cavanagh, Andy Tretton, Matt Redmile, David Perkins, Garry Thompson, Sam Ricketts, Scott Kerr, Gareth Sheldon, Steve Guinan, Liam Hatch.

TheFA.com will bring you the score from tonight's game later this evening, with a full report from the Highlands of Scotland tomorrow morning.