MIKE Atherton is set for an England recall this weekend - but probably not as an opener.

The Lancashire star, out of the international picture all season, could make his comeback at number three as a straight replacement for the injured Nasser Hussain.

Whether he is also asked to take over Hussain's role as captain is one of the big headaches for the selectors who meet today and announce their squad tomorrow. Graham Thorpe filled in when Hussain broke his finger during the second Test at Lord's, and might regard it as a slap in the face if they take the honour away from him at Old Trafford.

It seems certain, however, that Atherton's name will be top of the agenda for today's meeting with chairman Mike Gatting determined to put some backbone into England's crumbling top order.

They face some big decisions in an attempt to put England back on track after their nine wickets humiliation in the second Test at Lord's.

One - to bring back Atherton. It would be gambling on his fitness after the inflamed disc problem which has kept him on the England sidelines all season, but he says he is pain-free at the moment after three weeks action and there is no doubt about his form.

Two - to drop Aftab Habib. The Leicester man has looked ill at ease since his Edgbaston debut.

Three - to choose a second spinner for a pitch expected to turn. Peter Such of Essex claimed 13 wickets at Old Trafford in a recent championship game and could be the one to partner Phil Tufnell.

Four - to pick a new skipper in the likelihood of Hussain missing the match. Hussain will wait until Wednesday before making a decision but his broken finger makes him extremely doubtful.

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