Flintoff and England physio Dave Roberts on the bracing moors

He could play purely as a batsman in Lancashire's first game of the season.

England chief medical officer Dr Peter Gregory told The Mirror: "We are in touch with Freddie two or three times a week and his recovery is going well.

"The operation was a success and, as was planned, we are looking for him to play before he faces Australia."

Flintoff began outdoor training in Bolton last week and then joined a pre-season tour to the Algarve.

He is still expected to miss the two early summer Tests with Bangladesh, staying instead with his county.

It is not clear when the burly 27-year-old will resume his bowling activities in a match situation.

I can't imagine England will take any risks with Flintoff From Val Have your say on TMS

But the encouraging progress he has made since his ankle operation in February make it likely that he will be able to charge in with the ball at Lord's in the opening Ashes Test on 21 July.

Flintoff postponed his wedding to have the surgery in a bid to be fit for his first Ashes Test.