This is an important game for myself and the team Andrew Flintoff

Sunday is also likely to see Flintoff confirmed as England captain for next week's first Test against Sri Lanka.

But he said: "I'm not using it as a warm-up for a Test match. I'll just try and perform and help the lads out.

"It will be nice to go out there in Lancashire colours. I'd love to play much more, but it seems impossible."

Flintoff has not played since the fourth match of England's one-day series in India on 6 April.

Since then, he has been spending time with his family and undertaking a round of personal appearances.

"There's a lot of talk about players being rested from various forms of cricket, but the sheer volume of cricket means it's getting harder and harder.

"I'm thankful for the rest but you definitely need a game - you can't go into a Test match cold," he said.

Flintoff had his first net session on Thursday and also bowled on the square at Old Trafford after the close of play in Lancashire's current Championship match against Kent.

"Sometimes when you get the bat back in your hand you don't know where you're going to be at.

"I'm feeling good, I'm seeing the ball nicely and my feet were moving well. I'll have a couple more sessions in the nets before Sunday.

"It's been a while since I last played, but I've had a break and I'm ready to go again."