Flintoff, 29, has led England in 11 Tests and 14 one-day internationals, including the series victory in Australia last February.

But the all-rounder was sacked as England vice-captain during the World Cup and dropped from a match against Canada following a drunken escapade on a pedalo in St Lucia.

Flintoff's most pressing current concern is simply playing for England, let alone being captain.

The Lancashire star may not be able to play a full part in the ICC World Twenty20 starting in South Africa on Tuesday because of a long-standing ankle problem.

And he admits he might have to be on a "constant rehabilitation programme" for the rest of his career.

"The danger is, you get back to playing, and you're out all day in the field, and then you come off," he continued.

"And I've still got to do my exercises, I've still got to do the strength work on my ankle.

"I'm going to have to be disciplined to do that if I want to prolong my career."

Some observers have suggested he needs to change his bowling action because it puts too much pressure on his ankle.

But the all-rounder dismissed that notion, saying: "At 29, to start changing my action and tinkering with my feet would be unrealistic."

Flintoff also said that the public perception of him, exacerbated by the 'Fredalo' incident, was misguided.

"They see this fella who loves playing cricket, you see him with a pint in the evening and that's something which they think I'm all about.

"Some mornings I'm up at 6.30am to go running or do my training with Dave Roberts the physio.

"Then I come to the indoor school to do my practice, and then I practice with the Lancashire lads and do what it takes."