Steve Harmison insists he still has the hunger and desire to lead England's bowling attack and is determined to answer his critics.

The Durham paceman's future at international level has been brought under scrutiny after he was dropped following a poor first Test on England's recent tour of New Zealand.

Subsequently a number of current and former players, including former England bowler Andy Caddick, have questioned whether Harmison still wants to play cricket at the top level.

But the 29-year-old has hit back and said he is determined to force his way back into coach Peter Moores' squad and feature in the summer series against New Zealand and South Africa.

"I wouldn't play for Durham if I didn't think I would play for England - I can't stress that enough that I still want to play international cricket,'' Harmison said.

"This is definitely not the end of my England career - sometimes you have to take a step back before moving forward.

"And if that means me taking a step back and not playing Test cricket for the first part of this summer then OK.

"I have got to go back to basics a bit. I need to get back my consistency and the only way I'll get that is by playing cricket, taking wickets, and then I can put my hat back in the ring.

"I am under no illusions that I've maybe taken a step back in the way I performed in the last 18 months but I've only played a handful of games. And most of those games have been Test matches.

"People like to have a pop at me but I've got broad shoulders and I'll take it on the chin. They are having a field day and sticking in their 50p worth.

"But the critics have had their turn - now I've got the chance to have my turn.'' Harmison, who has taken 212 wickets in 57 Test matches, revealed Newcastle Falcons rugby star Jonny Wilkinson and Newcastle footballer Michael Owen have provided inspiration for him.

He also defended his decision to delay his departure to New Zealand to witness the birth of his son and insisted he would do the same again.

"It is difficult for me at the moment because I am getting a lot of stick. But because there is no cricket to play I can't answer that and the only way to answer that is by performing,'' Harmison added.

"We have a culture of kicking people when we're down and there are a couple of north-east sportsmen not far from here in different sports who have had a horrendous time lately.

"Seeing them come back spurs you on. They have spurred me and said to me 'keep knocking and I'll have my chance'.

"As for delaying my departure it was definitely the right decision to stay behind - I'll never apologise for staying behind for the birth of my son.

"It has not cost me my Test place - I did not bowl very well, that is why I did not play the last two Test matches in New Zealand.

"I don't think it'll ever happen again - I've got four children now - but if it ever happens again there is no doubt in my mind that I would stay again.

"Some things are more important than cricket and seeing your son come into the world is definitely one of them.''