Gough: Make me England captain

Darren Gough has emerged as an unlikely candidate to take on the England captaincy until Nasser Hussain returns from injury.

The England and Wales Cricket Board are looking for a stand-in for at least the Second Test at Lord's, which starts next week.

Michael Atherton and Marcus Trescothick are the leading contenders, following Alec Stewart's statement today that he doesn't want to be considered.

Stewart said: "I wouldn't take the job if it was offered. I think it is better to look to the future now."

But Gough revealed today that he would be keen to take on the role.

"They could give it to somebody who will play with a smile and not worry about any pressures at all," he said.

"It would be a pleasure to get asked. But I doubt that will happen."

There was some good news at last for cricket fans today with leading batsman Graham Thorpe sounding more optimistic about his chances of playing in the Second Test.

"My calf is feeling a lot freer and I hope to be running and hitting balls again by the end of the week," he said.