Jones craves England return

Fast bowler Simon Jones remains hopeful of putting his injury problems behind him and making an international comeback for England.

The 30-year-old, who missed the entire 2009 campaign to recover from knee surgery and was released by his former club Worcestershire at the end of the season, has not graced the international stage since England's victorious Ashes series in 2005.

Jones, who has since been signed by Hampshire on a three-year deal, played 18 Tests for England between 2002 and 2005 before a succession of injury problems put the brakes on his international career.

Although Jones has admitted that he has not ruled out a return to the England side, he claims domestic cricket is currently at the top of his priorities.

"I'd be lying if I said I don't want to play for England again but the main thing for me is to play," Jones told Sky Sports News.

"First and foremost I've got to concentrate on my stuff with Hampshire and get back playing.

"This year was a bit of a nightmare but these things happen. Just keep your head up and keep working."

Valuable

Jones, who is still recuperating from his knee problem, has revealed he is looking forward to earning his stripes at the Rose Bowl and believes he could be valuable to the side.

"I feel like I can offer something on the pitch like aggression and get the boys going and team support really," said Jones.

"It's one of those things I've experienced a lot over the last couple of years with regards to injuries and rehab and training and also when I'm playing as well.

"I feel like I've got a lot to offer and hopefully it comes through."

With England on the brink of embarking on their autumn tour of South Africa, Jones believes they could be faced with a hostile reception from the home crowd, but that the squad should take it in their stride.

"It will be tough, it's a funny place to play. The crowd do let you know what they're thinking about you and just try and put you off as much as they can," he added.

"It's fair enough, you're playing in their country and they want to put you off their game.

"That's part and parcel of being a professional sportsman."