Ashes 2023: England leave out Josh Tongue for fourth test

40-year-old Anderson returns to the side after being rested alongside Tongue for the third test, after the Worcestershire seamer took five wickets in the second test on his Ashes debut.

James Anderson replaces Ollie Robinson in the England side to face Australia in the fourth Ashes test (Image: PA)

England kept the Ashes alive in Leeds after Yorkshireman Harry Brook steered the hosts to victory with 75 runs before Chris Woakes and Mark Wood’s match-winning partnership saw them over the line in the third test.

Ben Stokes’ side are 2-1 down in the series with another must-win game on the line in Manchester.

A return for the most prolific seam bowler in Test history was never in doubt, despite modest returns of three wickets at 75.33 in the first two games.

England will be hoping home comforts serve him well and his return was welcomed by all-rounder and ex-Worcestershire man Moeen Ali, who insists the standard is always improved by Anderson’s presence.

Moeen Ali (far right) and James Anderson chat with captain Ben Stokes during the first Ashes test (Image: PA)

"There’s no doubt England are a better team with James Anderson in it," said Moeen.

"He’s the best bowler we have and have had over the years, 100 per-cent. Jimmy’s Jimmy, even in the first two games I actually thought he bowled really well. He’s been a bit unfortunate with catches and things not going his way.

"I think anybody that plays at their home ground for England, it’s amazing, but especially for him having his own end here.

"Being the best bowler England have ever had, being a legend of a player and a great guy as well, it’s great to see him have the opportunity to play what could be his last one (at home). Hopefully he bowls well and gets us the win."

The fourth test begins on Wednesday, July 19 with England having to win if they want to stay alive in the series.