NEW Lancashire wicketkeeper Luke Sutton says he is targeting an England cap as he gets used to life at Old Trafford.

The former Derbyshire skipper, who ended his five-year stay at the County Ground at the end of last season, is relishing the chance to prove himself with the Red Rose county as a world class wicketkeeper-batsman.

But the 29-year-old accepted he had to get it right for Lancashire and fill the gloves of Warren Hegg before he can ever dream of pulling on an England shirt.

He said: "I see this move as a great opportunity to really step up my career and go up another level. And hopefully I can help Lancashire win trophies into the bargain.

"It's difficult to break into the England side at the moment, so I don't worry about it too much.

"I do want to play for England, but my job is to play well for Lancashire, help the side and do the best I can as an individual player.

"If that leads to international recognition, then great.

"But ultimately, I've got to do my job for Lancashire and I'm confident that I will."

He added: "I know Warren is a legend at Lancashire," he added.

"To play for the length of time he did, and at the standard he did was an incredible achievement.

"I think stepping into his shoes is huge task. I think he was very unlucky not to play more for England, but he has been a magnificent servant to Lancashire and I think that if I can have half a good a career as him I'd be proud."

The players report back for duty on December 1 and Sutton can't wait to get among his new team-mates one of whom will be Chorley pro Tom Smith.

Smith, part of the ECB Academy squad 2005/06, has been offered a professional contract for 2006.

Smith played one Totesport League game last season but impressed with his form in the seconds to bag himself a contract alongside Karl Brown.

And Sutton added: "We report back on the first of December and I'm just looking forward to that," he said.

"It's a great opportunity to really get to know the guys and I want to spend as much time as I can here. The sooner I get used to the club and the surroundings and get to know the players the better, so that when the season comes round I will feel like I've already made a new home."