He believes England could pose a threat to Australia's dominance of the Ashes in 2005, but reckons they have little chance of claiming the prized urn in this Australian summer.

Healy never lost an Ashes series in his 119-Test career, and the former national team vice-captain is confident that the new breed of English players are not yet ready to mount a serious challenge to the Aussies.

He admits that England have made strides in recent years under the guidance of captain Nasser Hussain and coach Duncan Fletcher, but said: "I can't see it being any better for England than the last series."

Steve Waugh's Australia were 4-1 winners in England last year, and Healy expects a similar outcome in the forthcoming series.

"England may get a Test match, but I can't see the overall tale of the Ashes changing," he added.

"England are on the right track and they talk a good game. They've got the right philosophies and I'd put them closer to Australia in 2005, but not here in our conditions."

There is some hope for Hussain's team though, according to Healy who has been replaced by Adam Gilchrist in the national team.

"They could still be in trouble if they allow England to get on top of them early on," he explained. "Australia will be a touch vulnerable early on as they were in England last year.

"But England didn't pounce then and if they miss their chance again I can't see them doing any better this time than they have in the last five series."