Marlon Devonish says he is in the shape of his life

The bends are tighter on an indoor than an outdoor track, meaning being drawn on an inside lane can disadvantage a tall runner like Devonish.

"The problem is that the lane draws give advantages, whereas outdoors it remains an even playing field," Devonish said.

But the Commonwealth Games 200m silver medallist insisted he would be giving his all at the championships in Birmingham.

"When an opportunity comes in athletics, you should take the chance," he said.

Profile: Marlon Devonish

"Initially I didn't want to do the indoor season at all.

"But when I had two weeks training in Florida, I knew I was running well.

"Even then, I was totally surprised when I came back home and ran 20.51 at the Norwich Union Indoor Grand Prix in Birmingham.

"I've never run this quick indoors before but it shows I am in the shape of my life.

"I kind of decided just after the race to go for the World Indoors, but I still don't like doing indoors.

"My heart's not in it but I will still go out and represent my country with pride and give it 100%."

I am pleased with my recovery and looking forward to racing in Birmingham Jason Gardener

Meanwhile, Jason Gardener is confident he has overcome a slight injury ahead of the championships, which get underway in Birmingham on 14 March.

"My races have gone extremely well this season," said the European Indoor 60m champion.

"However, the past couple of weeks have been a little bit uncertain. I picked up a little niggle with the result that I have been working semi-hard at getting myself fit."