In his final interview for BBC Radio Five Live, MacLaurin said the future for Gough, who was forced to fly home from the Australian tour without playing a game, looked bleak.

Gough has not played a Test since August 2001.

He has had three failed operations to try to rectify a knee injury he sustained in a one-day international in New Zealand in February.

MacLaurin said: "Darren fit and well would be a great plus for us but it looks like it could be the end for him now.

"Bad legs for fast bowlers are not good news I suspect it could well be the end for him and it would be very sad if that is the case."

MacLaurin's words came on the same day that Gough told the News of the World that he was prepared for the worst.

The fast bowler is about to meet doctors to discuss his future and is not prepared for any good news.

Gough told the tabloid: "If I need another operation or some other sort of treatment, that will definitely be the last chance.

"But I could also be told I'm wasting my time - that it's all over already. I've come to terms with the fact that's what I could be told."

In a wide-ranging interview, MacLaurin added that he hoped Nasser Hussain would continue as England captain beyond the World Cup.

He said: "Nasser is one of the best captains we've had for a very, very long time and he's a tough character.

"I would be very sad to see him stand down. I think we need him for English cricket and I would like him to stay on after the World Cup."

David Morgan takes over MacLaurin's job on 1 January.