Jones did not have the best of tours in South Africa, dropping catches and conceding too many byes.

Now England coach Duncan Fletcher has sought out the 54-Test veteran.

Russell told the Daily Express: "Duncan and captain Michael Vaughan have asked me to build a relationship with Geraint and give him whatever help he needs."

The pair have already worked closely but Russell will be heavily involved as the countdown to the Ashes begins.

He said: "Geraint has got the ability to play 100 Tests for England. He has the right attitude.

"People have to remember he is still quite raw. There are some things we need to work out but it's just a case of smoothing out a few rough edges.

"In terms of winning the Ashes, he has got an important role to play. He can do some real damage and I've no doubt he has the stomach for a fight.