England football captains Steph Houghton and Harry Kane have encouraged people to get involved with the FA's new 'Pledge of Positivity' campaign.

The aim is to help spread positivity from the sidelines at grassroots football after research shows that 90% of footballers play better in a positive environment. 

And Houghton and Kane have called for commitment by parents, spectators and coaches who have the opportunity to help make the football environment a positive experience.

Houghton said: "You have the power to influence today's game. And shape a child's experience of football.

"For me, the encouragement of my mum, dad and coaches led me from this pitch to World Cups. Commit to being a positive parent or spectator."

Kane added: "By standing behind this line, you have an important role.

"When I was growing up, the support of my family, coaches and teammates helped me to fall in love with football."

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said: “Having coached grassroots football for the last five years, I’ve seen first-hand the huge impact that parents on the sidelines can have on players from both a positive and negative point of view.

"It’s no surprise that kids play better in a positive environment and our research has confirmed this impacts 90 per cent of players.

"It’s crucial that we create an atmosphere where players are encouraged rather than abused, for their enjoyment of football as well as their mental health. I urge others to join me in making this pledge and showing their support for kids’ football."