Strauss has hit just 58 runs in three Tests this summer

Geoff Boycott said the Middlesex batman should have been dropped for the match, which starts in Durham on Friday.

But Hoggard told BBC Five Live: "He's a quality player. It isn't just about runs, it's also about his personality and knowledge. He's another captain.

"He's on a bit of a bad run at the moment but it only takes one knock."

Interview: England bowler Matthew Hoggard

Interview: Geoff Boycott

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Former Australia Test star Justin Langer also backed Strauss, his former Middlesex colleague, to come good.

"I think Strauss is a great talent, an excellent character, a leader in the team and they should stick with him," said the current Somerset captain.

"He is definitely one of the best six players in England."

Hoggard is due to return to England's side on Friday providing he proves his fitness in Yorkshire's Friends Provident Trophy match on Wednesday.

If England are taking 20 wickets to win Test matches you can't really grumble Matthew Hoggard

The Yorkshire seamer missed the last two Tests because of a groin strain but is confident of joining forces with Steve Harmison in England's line-up.

Hoggard's return has seen the selectors drop Liam Plunkett after an erratic display in the third Test series-clinching win at Old Trafford.

"He's a got immense talent. With the kind of balls he can produce he will become a massive force if he can cut out the wayward deliveries," said Hoggard.

"I feel it's more mental than technical and if he gets his confidence back he will be fighting for my place."

Hoggard admitted that Harmison had struggled in the last Test but played down criticism about England's attack.

"He hasn't bowled at his best but he still took four wickets to help England take 20 wickets and win the series," he added.

"If England are taking 20 wickets to win Test matches you can't really grumble."