Collymore's England goal

Stan Collymore still has international ambitions

Stan Collymore is aiming to reclaim a place in the England squad - and cites Paul Gascoigne as an example.

"People are talking about Gazza coming back into the side and he's four years older than me," said the 29-year-old Leicester striker.

"I believe my best years are ahead of me anyway. I've never given up hope of playing for England again.

"If I can produce my best form there is no reason why it shouldn't happen this season."

Collymore is expected to play against his former club Aston Villa on Saturday, just four months after breaking his leg at Derby.

It was another setback for the striker who moved across the Midlands after suffering depression at Villa.

But he has made a quick recovery from his broken leg and is now anxious to add to his three caps for England.

Shearer's retirement is Collymore incentive

With Alan Shearer having retired and Robbie Fowler injured, manager Kevin Keegan seems short of strikers in going into the friendly with France on 2 September.

Collymore was frustrated and disappointed with the way England played in Euro 2000.

"New faces have to come in. Look at these things purely on ability and what I can do."

He said: "I can run at defenders and take players on and England don't have anyone like that at the moment.

"So hopefully if I can stay fit, play well and knock in a few goals I will get considered.

"I know I am 29 but if you are fit and doing the business, age doesn't matter. The gaffer Peter Taylor believes I can get back in the international side, particularly as Alan Shearer has retired. I believe that as well and that's certainly my target."

Collymore said he has felt no twinges from the ankle which was bent at right angles in the accident.

"I was always confident I would be ready for pre-season as there was no ligament damage.

"I think a lot of people are surprised at the speed of my recovery but I put a lot of hard work in and the physios have been fantastic."