Aussie fast bowler Lee looking forward to the return of great rival Flintoff

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Flintoff is due to play for England in the second Test of the series against South Africa, which gets under way at Headingley on Friday, after overcoming a series of ankle complaints and a side strain.

And Lee is happy to see the inspirational all-rounder close to a comeback.

Welcome back: Brent Lee is relishing his battles against Andrew Flintoff again.

'Flintoff is a once-in-a-generation player,' said the 31-year-old.

'I liken him to the great Ian Botham. They are guys who can change a game at the drop of a hat with bat and ball and also field.

'He was the standout in the '05 Ashes over there, he's also a very close friend of mine but a magnificent player on and off the field.

'He's a great guy and the type of guy who can change the game. I am looking forward to having him back definitely.'

Lee, who is currently enjoying some time out with his family after guiding Australia to a 2-0 Test series win over West Indies, said he had already cast an eye to next year's Ashes series.

'I have actually tried to get away from cricket for a short period of time,' he said.

'It's really good to refresh the batteries and get ready to go for what is going to be a massive summer and even a big 18 months.

'We've got the Ashes coming up as well which we are not directly looking forward to right now because we have a few things in place that we have to take care of first.

'I would be lying if I didn't say I was looking forward to the Ashes next year.'

Lee, Australia's strike weapon now the likes of Shane Warne and Glenn McGrath have hung up their bowling spikes, has also monitored the current series between England and South Africa.

'I'd be lying if I say I haven't been doing a bit of homework on the series that is happening now because we have got South Africa and England coming up shortly,' he said.

'I have been doing a bit of homework and watching their players. They have got a lot of young guys coming through who have been very impressive so I am looking forward to playing against both of those sides.'