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England fast-bowling advisor Southee is still working through what his involvement will be at the forthcoming Ashes series in Australia.

The former New Zealand pace bowler is expected to be available for the opening match due to his involvement in the ILT20 tournament, which starts on 2 December in the United Arab Emirates.

The 36-year-old, 36, took up a position as the English team's fast bowling consultant in the warmer months after claiming 391 scalps in 107 Tests for the Kiwis.

Speaking as England's squad for the opening of three Twenty20 games against the Kiwis was named, he stated of his availability: "We're still working through the situation at the present time.

"We'll see the outcome over the coming days."

England bowling legend Broad had declared the Australia side as their "worst team since 2010", but the consultant was in little doubt over what to expect during the contest, which begins on 21 November.

"In my view there's ever a bad Aussie side," Southee said.

"Our focus is squarely on our own objectives. In my opinion the quality of [England's] side that's going out to Australia is excellent.

"It ought to be an absolute cracker, the Ashes. Not only [are|do] fans from both nations eagerly anticipate it, I believe the whole cricket world is."

But, prior to England travel to the city of Perth for the opening Ashes Test, they face New Zealand in Christchurch on Saturday.

England XI v New Zealand:

• Salt

• Jos Buttler

• Jacob Bethell

• Harry Brook (c)

• Tom Banton

• Sam Curran

• Jordan Cox

• Carse

• Dawson

• Adil Rashid

• Luke Wood