IAN BELL has identified the number four position vacated by Kevin Pietersen as the place for him in the England batting order.

The 32-year-old made it clear last weekend that, unsurprisingly, he will be happy to bat wherever England need him — having been promoted to number three at the end of last year’s Ashes whitewash, following Jonathan Trott’s return home and Joe Root’s loss of form.

It was also at number three that Bell made a career- best 235 against India at The Oval in 2011.

But he told the June issue of The Cricketer magazine: “I’ve been at number five, so moving to four makes sense.”

The Warwickshire captain, scheduled to play his 100th Test at Headingley next month, also reiterates that he will continue working regularly with Graham Gooch — despite the latter’s departure as England batting coach.

“Gooch is someone I’ll still be tapping into for advice over the next few years,” Bell added.

“He’s been a massive part of the success we’ve had as a batting unit and he’s one of the best coaches I’ve ever worked with.”

Bell voiced his fond memories too of batting alongside Pietersen, with whom England controversially parted company little over three months ago.

“I’ve played with Kev for 10 years and I enjoyed my time with him. I’ve been very fortunate to play my career alongside someone who’s done some really special things for England.

“We’ve always had a good relationship on the field as our batting seemed to complement each other.”