Geoff Cook is hopeful of repeating last season's feats (Getty)

Durham coach Geoff Cook has urged fast bowler Steve Harmison to prove a point to England's selectors when he returns to the county scene this season.

The 29-year-old was released from the international set-up after a disappointing winter, but Cook believes England's loss could be Durham's gain.

"Steve has got things to prove," he told BBC Radio Newcastle.

"Steven has got to regain his credibility as a bowler. And, if he does that for Durham, then we win."

Durham have bolstered their line-up with the re-signing of Michael Di Venuto, as well as Neil McKenzie, who will deputise for Shivnarine Chanderpaul ahead of his arrival at the Riverside.

Cook is tipping the top order to help Durham repeat last season's successes.

"McKenzie, Benkenstein, DiVenuto - those three will present a strong top order and we're dying to see Kyle Coetzer get going," he said.

"He's proved himself a real talent and he's got a lot of ambition."