Key today claimed half a dozen 'second-string' cricketers could be competing for places ahead of the Ashes.
For Bell, a spell back in the county game could benefit all parties if he is to be part of the squad this summer.
The last time the Warwickshire batsman returned from the axe, in 2005-2006, he returned to hit three centuries in a row.
Form of Steve Harmison
You could make a case for dropping most of the current squad, Harmison included.
However, if ever there was a place for the Durham man to regain his searing pace and hostile bounce it is the West Indies.
Bowling coach Otis Gibson will no doubt be trying to coerce a significant improvement from his frontline bowler and England supporters will hope to see a good deal more from him in the next three tests.
While it is clear he is not the player he once was, if Harmison gets anywhere near his old self, he could still prove a valuable Ashes asset.
Re-think opening partnership
Refreshing the top order could have its advantages ahead of the challenges to come.
Andrew Strauss has performed well since his return to the side after being dropped for the Sri Lanka tour in 2007. However, it remains to be seen if he can maintain his batting with the dual role and added pressure of the captaincy.
His partner Alistair Cook is another of those struggling to reverse some distinctly average form.
Cook hasn't scored a century for over a year (22 innings) and like Bell, is overdue for a return to the county circuit.
One of the bedrocks of the Ashes success in 2005 was the solidity of the opening two and now could be the ideal time to see if a fresh partnership has what it takes to face the Aussies.
Perhaps more radically the return of Michael Vaughan has been muted in some quarters and if the selection panel are looking at including the former skipper against Australia, now could be the ideal time to get him back in.
Get Simon Jones fit
England look to be crying out for someone to compliment Stuart Broad's impressive performances and Jones could be the man.
He was a key figure in the home Ashes win but has since struggled badly with injury.
Selectors will surely be keeping a close eye on his country form as he can offer a genuine swing option to the side and the hierarchy would be well advised to wrap him in cotton wool if he shows any sort of form in the lead-up to the Ashes.
