England captain Alastair Cook has insisted that he is not taking any notice of the criticism aimed at him ahead of the third Test against India.

Cook's role as skipper has been called into question in recent weeks following a disappointing run for both the team and himself.

Former England teammate Kevin Pietersen is the latest name to urge Cook to stand down, but the 29-year-old is clear that he wants to stay as captain.

"It would be much nicer if they were saying nice things about me," he told reporters. "They have been through it themselves.

"Does it affect me? I'm quite a strong-willed guy who doesn't take much notice really of the media. I've got to concentrate on myself in these next five days and not what people are saying from the commentary box.

"I've got to stay true to myself and say how good it would be I can come through this as a person, as a player, as a leader."

England start the third Test against India in Southampton on Sunday.