England will play three One-day internationals against Bangladesh in February-March. That could mark Flintoff's return. But it is more likely to take place in the domestic season, providing he does not get injured again in the Indian Premier League.

Flintoff has encouraged England to build on their Ashes success. 'We've won the Ashes, fantastic, but if lessons can be learned from the past, now is the time to try to dominate as a Test team,' he said.

'We've got the players to do it, we've got the captain to lead us, and it's a realistic goal.'