Andy Flower backs Andrew Strauss for series against West Indies

England coach Andy Flower has given out-of-form captain Andrew Strauss a vote of confidence on the eve of the announcement of the squad to face West Indies in the first Test at Lord's on Thursday.

Strauss has gone without a Test century in nearly two years and has struggled in recent weeks, with a highest score of 49 in six County Championship innings.

Flower, however, said batsmen had generally struggled in the seamer friendly conditions on the County circuit recently and backed Strauss to come good in the three-Test series.

"Playing in these conditions is tough for the fellows and we have seen the quick bowlers - the seamer bowlers and swing bowlers - dominate the early season," Flower said.

"I am fully confident that Strauss will perform well in the Test series against the West Indies. I'm very confident, he's a fine cricketer and fine leader."