England have added yet more NRL talent to their Four Nations campaign with Wests Tigers lock Chris Heighington added to Steve McNamara's train-on squad.

Just days after luring rookie Brisbane centre Jack Reed to the Lions fold, the host nation named Heighington in their extended squad after the Tigers workhorse - who possess dual nationality due to his English father - declared his intention to play for England.

"I'm delighted that Chris wants to play for England, he's an outstanding player who I'm really looking forward to working with during the fall-out program and perhaps beyond," McNamara said.

"His work-rate and work ethic are first class and I'm sure those qualities will enhance the elite training squad as we strive to achieve international success."

Heighington is expected to be joined by Tigers teammate Gareth Ellis in the final squad, though Ellis still needs to be cleared by medical officials, while Melbourne's five-eighth Gareth Widdop is almost certain to be involved.

"Playing for England is something that's been on my mind for a good few years now and if I get the chance I'll be very proud," Heighington said.

"I've spoken to Gareth about it and to players like (South Sydney's) Sam Burgess and Gareth Widdop and the idea has become more exciting for me."

Burgess has already been ruled out of the tournament due to injury.

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