James Anderson in England squad for fifth Ashes Test

James Anderson had to leave the field with a side strain during the third Test at Edgbaston

Fast bowler James Anderson has been named in the England squad for the fifth Ashes Test against Australia.

Anderson, who missed the fourth Test with a side strain, replaces Mark Footitt in a 14-man squad for the match at The Oval starting on 20 August.

Under-pressure opening batsman Adam Lyth has been retained despite averaging only 12.28 in the series.

England have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series following their emphatic win at Trent Bridge.

"James Anderson is continuing to improve," national selector James Whitaker said.

"With 10 days to go before the Test he may be able to play a part at The Oval, although with the series won we will not be taking any chances given the cricket we have in the coming months."

If Anderson is selected he is likely to replace either Durham seamer Mark Wood or Middlesex fast bowler Steven Finn in the XI.

Whitaker added: "I have no doubt the players will want a strong finish to the series.

"Regaining the Ashes is a superb achievement down to 18 months of hard work and the contributions of so many different players at key times throughout the series so far is hugely encouraging."

England squad for the fifth Ashes Test: Alastair Cook (Essex, capt), Moeen Ali (Worcestershire), Jonny Bairstow (Yorkshire), Ian Bell (Warwickshire), Stuart Broad (Nottinghamshire), Jos Buttler (Lancashire), Steven Finn (Middlesex), James Anderson (Lancashire), Adam Lyth (Yorkshire), Liam Plunkett (Yorkshire), Adil Rashid (Yorkshire), Joe Root (Yorkshire), Ben Stokes (Durham), Mark Wood (Durham).