Fast bowler James Anderson and all-rounder Paul Collingwood have been drafted into a 13-man England squad for the fifth Ashes Test, which starts at the Oval on Thursday.
Anderson or Collingwood could replace Simon Jones in the final line-up against Australia if the pace bowler does not recover from an ankle injury.
"We feel that James Anderson's inclusion in the squad will give the captain and coach another bowling option in the event of Simon being unfit to play," England and Wales Cricket Board chairman of selectors David Graveney said on Sunday.
"Simon is continuing to make progress in his recovery from injury and we will give him as much time as he needs in order to prove his fitness.
"He will continue to receive treatment over the next 48 hours and be re-assessed by the medical team at practice on Tuesday."
The 11 players who featured in England's win in the fourth Test at Trent Bridge, which gave the hosts a 2-1 series lead over the world champions, have retained their places.
Uncapped seamer Chris Tremlett was dropped from the squad, however, having acted as 12th man in the first four Tests.
"Chris Tremlett will be disappointed... (but) we feel that he is not at the top of his game at present," said Graveney.
Collingwood, who has played two Tests, was included in he squad for the second match at Edgbaston for 48 hours while conditions were assessed, before being released back to Durham.
Anderson has taken 35 wickets in 12 Tests at an average of 36.39.
Australia, who must win the fifth Test to retain the Ashes, have yet to name their squad.
Their main strike bowler, Glenn McGrath, declared himself fit to take part after missing two of the last three Tests with ankle and elbow problems.
"It's back to business as usual for the fifth Test. I've made a full recovery and will definitely play at the Oval," McGrath was quoted as saying in the Mail on Sunday newspaper.
"It's been frustrating sitting out two of the first four Tests but now I can get at England in the decider."
Team: Michael Vaughan (captain), Marcus Trescothick, Andrew Strauss, Ian Bell, Kevin Pietersen, Andrew Flintoff, Geraint Jones, Ashley Giles, Simon Jones, Matthew Hoggard, Steve Harmison, James Anderson, Paul Collingwood.
