Dec 05: Paula Radcliffe has confirmed she will compete in the European Cross Country Championships in Scotland next weekend.
She decided delayed her decision after surprisingly finishing only third in her leg of the Chiba International Ekiden Relay last month.
But after coming through a series of fitness tests, she has signalled her intention to run in an event she won five years ago.
"We have a very good women's team that can win the title," said Radcliffe.
"I know from Manchester and London what an advantage a home crowd is."
Radcliffe will be part of a strong British team in Edinburgh on 14 December.
Jo Pavey, a finalist in this year's world 1500m final, English national cross country champion Hayley Yelling and former European Cup 3000m gold-medallist Kathy Butler are all included.
Making up the six-strong team will be Radcliffe's highly-experienced Bedford team-mate Liz Yelling and reigning Scottish cross country champion Susan Partridge.
Reigning European junior cross country champion Charlotte Dale is selected to defend her title, but her participation is subject to a fitness test.
The men's side will be led by trial winner Chris Thompson, winner of the European junior 5000m title in the summer.
Also in the team is Chris Davies, who was favourite to win the trial race. The Telford athlete dropped out with a minor ankle injury but is expected to be fit for Edinburgh.
Bureau Report