Thomson's comments irked Gough

Thomson said Australia would embarrass England in the Ashes, describing Matthew Hoggard as a "net bowler" compared to the Aussie attack.

But Gough retorted: "It's a lack of intelligence on Thomson's part.

"Hoggard is a good Test bowler. Anyone who gets over 100 wickets is good and Hoggard will probably end up with more wickets than Thomson got."

Gough said both sides would play mind games ahead of the Ashes, which start in July, but Thomson had overstepped the mark.

Related story: Thomson predicts mis-match

He told BBC Radio Five Live: "It's all right saying Australia are a good side, which they are, but I'm not for it when it becomes disrespectful."

Thomson did not give England a chance in the series saying they would not win a single Test.

Gough, who still plays one-day internationals for England, said it would be tough but believes they have to play with confidence.

"We will need nine out of 11 players to be at the top of the game if we want to cause an upset," he added.