Paul Fairclough's men to begin ICT campaign at Highbury Stadium.

England C v Italy
The International Challenge Trophy
7.30pm, Tuesday 28 February 2012
Highbury Stadium, Fleetwood Town FC

England C will kick-off their 2013 International Challenge Trophy (ICT) campaign against Italy at Fleetwood Town’s Highbury Stadium on 28 February 2012.

It will be third time lucky for Paul Fairclough’s side with England having finished runners-up to Belgium and Portugal across the last two tournaments.

Admission for the game will be free and Fairclough commented: “I am delighted that we’ll open up our ICT campaign in the North-West of the country.

“Fleetwood Town are on the crest of a wave at the moment both in the League and The FA Cup and the visit of an England team not only creates history for the area but for the club itself. The newly developed stadium has excellent facilities and a playing surface to befit such an occasion.

“The North-West has an unquenchable thirst for football and I am confident that supporters from the area will spur us on to victory.”

Fleetwood Town Chairman, Andy Pilley, said: “We are absolutely delighted with the recognition of the great facilities we now have at Highbury and I’m sure we’ll be excellent hosts on the evening.

“It’s not just about the facilities but our outstanding pitch which is easiest the best in the Football Conference thanks to our groundsman Dale Frith.

“Shaun Beeley was our last player to be honoured with an England C cap and I’m sure we have plenty of other worthy players to follow suit.

“It’s an honour to be called on by The Football Association.”

England’s ICT fixtures will continue in 2012 with visits to Russia and Belgium in June and September respectively.