Flintoff optimistic of extended career

Andrew Flintoff believes that the ankle injury that ruled him out of the home series against West Indies and India could help extend his career. He feels that his best years are ahead of him.

"I really feel I can get better,"Flintoff told the Sun. "My bowling is improving and I've been working hard on my batting. For two or three years, most things went the way I wanted. But I've had some setbacks during with injury, losing the Ashes, struggling in the World Cup - and even the pedalo business."

Flintoff will make his comeback in the first ODI against India at Southhampton on Tuesday after recovering from a third operation on his left ankle.

"The ankle feels great," Flintoff said. "The operation was something I needed and everyone is pleased with what I've been able to do since. The surgery was in a different area of the foot to the previous couple. I don't think it was such a big procedure, certainly the scars are smaller this time - just a couple of keyholes. It always takes a bit of time to trust the ankle, pounding it down when I bowl."

England bowling coach Allan Donald had said that Flintoff needed to change the angle of his left foot during his delivery stride in order to avoid further injuries. Flintoff, however, said he was happy with the way he was bowling.

"I'm sure he [Donald] wants the best for me and is trying to help. He was a great fast bowler himself and is very well respected in the game. The angle of my foot is something I'm aware of, but it was a lot more closed three years when it was almost at right angles.

"The fact is that I'm slightly pigeon-toed when I walk so it's natural that my foot should point towards fine leg. I'm 29 so it is not going to be easy to change. I've spent a lot of time strengthening the ankle and I have some new boots that are low cut and allow the ankle more freedom to move."