Joe Root insists he's still the right man to captain England despite becoming the first English skipper in 18 years not to emerge from a home Ashes series with the trophy.
The 28-year-old has won just one of nine Ashes Tests since becoming captain in 2016 and has accumulated just three half-centuries and the same number of ducks across eight innings of this current series.
Root's side showed tremendous heart and resilience for a second successive Test as Australia struggled to close out their 185-run fourth Test win until 45 minutes before the scheduled close of play at Old Trafford.
The win put Australia 2-1 up and ensured they retain the Ashes with one Test still to play at The Oval
However, after Ben Stokes gave an on-field team talk to the team before the second innings on Saturday, doubts have been raised by sections of the English media about whether he is suitable to be captain.
"We are in the position we are and we have to make the most of that," Root said.
"I have been given a fantastic opportunity to captain the Test side and will continue to work very hard at doing my best at that.
"That is in my control and I have to make sure I keep getting this team in the best shape to win as many games as possible.
"Whenever you lose a series it hurts, I have to take that on the chin.
"You have to look at areas you want to get better at, both in yourself and as a team."
England are likely to welcome back Chris Woakes for the fifth Test with allrounder Sam Curran also set to come in to the side at the expense of Surrey teammate Jason Roy.
Stokes's shoulder issue limited his ability to bowl at Old Trafford, which will see Curran come in as the fifth bowling option.
Roy has struggled throughout the series to emulate his one-day form and was bowled through the gate twice in the fourth Test after being moved down the order to try and protect him from the new ball.
Root insists although the chance to claim the urn is gone, he is desperate to level the series in the final Test at The Oval, starting on Thursday.
"We have to make sure we finish this summer strong," he said.
"We have a Test championship to play for, do not lose this Ashes series."
Australian Associated Press
