Glenn McGrath has his sights set firmly on England opener Mike Atherton for the forthcoming Ashes series.

McGrath is confident that he can demoralise Atherton, which in turn will hurt the entire England side.

McGrath enjoyed similar success against the West Indies earlier in the year when he mastered Brain Lara.

Atherton, a former England captain, is a veteran of 109 Tests, and his experience should help him to see off the new ball attack of McGrath, Brett Lee and Jason Gillespie.

"Athers is still the key wicket, that's the one I'm after," McGrath said on Saturday before flying to England.

"It would be nice to continue to get him out - I've got him 13 times so far and I'm looking forward to renewing our rivalry."

The English conditions suit McGrath, who can fire the ball on a good length with sharp pace and bounce, letting the pitch or a rash stroke from the batsman do the rest.

"I've got some good memories in England - the Ashes in 1997, the World Cup in 1999, and last year playing for Worcestershire," he said.

"I've had quite a bit of success and I'm very confident going over there."