Jos Buttler has backed England wicketkeeper Matt Prior to rediscover his form as he endures a difficult time in the Ashes series Down Under.

The 31-year-old's position has come under scrutiny ahead of the fourth Test, with some suggesting that Yorkshire's Jonny Bairstow could take over the gloves in Melbourne.

However, Buttler, who keeps wicket for the Twenty20 side, said that Prior is a massive part of the setup and believes that he will answer his critics in the middle.

"Everyone knows what a quality cricketer Matt is, he has shown that over a number of years for England and he's obviously a big voice in the dressing room as well," the 23-year-old told Sky Sports News.

"He is vice captain so he is a massive player for England and I'm sure it won't be long until he is back to his best form and that's only going to help England.

"I'm sure it's not far away, I'm sure he'll feel in great nick himself and it's only a matter of time before he gets a big score."

Australia regained The Ashes with victory in the third Test in Perth.