England‘s lynchpin all-rounder, Andrew Flintoff  said "With the injuries and going through the rehab, at times it has been tough.

"But the thought of putting on an England shirt and cap again is the one thing that gets you through.

"Having had the opportunity to wear the Three Lions around the world, walking out at venues like Lord’s or here tomorrow, I don’t think you can put into words how much I enjoy it and how privileged I have been to do it."

"It’s very good, quite excitable in the dressing room – people want to get going and play," he said.

"This Test match is a one-off. Whatever has happened before, it will be how the two teams react to the pressure occasion.

"Australia played well in the last match but we’ve had time to regroup and put that to bed."

"He’s been a fine bowler. It’s been unfortunate for him – and Kevin (Pietersen) has gone through it as well – not being involved as much as they want to (this summer)," he added.

"I think it would be hard to get rid of anyone from that last Test match. If Brett plays, fine, but we have to concentrate more on getting ourselves right than who they’re picking."