The Ashes 2013: Keys for England Continuing Success in Third Test

After demolishing Australia in the second Test at Lord's, England are on the verge of retaining the Ashes.

A win in the third Test starting at at Old Trafford on Thursday would see Andy Flower's side hold onto the famous urn with a 5-0 whitewash still a possibility.

Their victory at the home of cricket, by a stunning 347 runs and with a day to spare, was in stark contrast to a remarkably tense triumph in the opening Test at Trent Bridge.

There England struggled to assert themselves and had to rely on some fine bowling from James Anderson to seal a win by just 14 runs.

Here's what England need in the third Test to seal victory in the 2013 Ashes series. 

Joe Root on form

Youngster Joe Root was England's standout performer in the previous Test, top-scoring with an impressive 180.

The 22-year-old, playing in his first Ashes series, has defied his tender years thus far with performances filled with maturity and natural talent.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, bowler James Anderson said of Root:

"

He's been amazing.

There's a lot of pressure on this series and for someone so young to take it in his stride, it's a great credit to him -- he seems to thrive off it, almost.

The way he has dealt with it will stand him in good stead for the future and I'm sure he's got a big future ahead of him.

"

Anderson and England will be hoping Root can continue making a mockery of Australia's bowling attack.

Kevin Pietersen back in the side

Despite Root's contribution, Kevin Pietersen remains arguably England's best option towards the top of the batting order.

He struggled with a calf injury during the second Test and was doubtful for the Old Trafford clash until proving that he'd be fit enough to play some part.

Pietersen has been England's best all-round batsman in recent years and still has plenty to give despite regular injury troubles.

Old Trafford has not been kind to him in the past and he'll be determined to improve on both his Test average of 33 there and top score of 68.

Graeme Swann to take advantage

The Old Trafford wicket is expected to turn, allowing bowlers with spin, pace and bounce to make the most of it.

England off-spinner Graeme Swann was instrumental in the second Test win and again could prove a vital attacking weapon in Manchester.

His style should be suited perfectly to the conditions, with coach Andy Flower set to name the same lineup who took apart the Aussies at Lord's.

If Swann is on form again, the return of David Warner to the Australian lineup is unlikely to be enough to save tourists.