Lyon is the only specialist spinner in Australia's 16-man touring party to England, but West Australian youngster Ashton Agar and Pakistani refugee Fawad Ahmed may also come into consideration.

Left-arm orthodox spinner Agar is already in England, while Ahmed has been training with the Australian squad two days a week in Brisbane.

The leg-spinner could be added to the Ashes squad if he has his Australian citizenship approved.

Ahmed's presence will put pressure on Lyon, who had a mixed series in Australia's 4-0 loss in India, taking 15 wickets in three Tests at an average of 37.33.

''I've spoken to 'Pup' [Clarke] about my role and his expectations of me in the side,'' Lyon said.

''If I do my role well, hopefully I keep my spot. It was an extremely

tough tour [in India] for all of the players, and personally I've grown a lot.

''I think we've got a well-balanced squad and we're looking to bring the Ashes home.''

Lyon and wicketkeeper Matthew Wade had a flying visit to Canberra on Wednesday as part of a promotion with British Sports Minister Hugh Robertson and Australian counterpart Kate Lundy at the AIS.

It was Canberra where Lyon's cricketing career took off, the former Manuka Oval groundsman playing with the ACT Comets en route to getting his big break with South Australia.

But after two seasons with the Redbacks, the 25-year-old from Young has decided to pack his bags and relocate to Sydney to play for NSW.

''It was a family-based decision to get a good support structure off the field and move closer to home,'' he said.

''I'm very grateful what South Australia have done for me.

''It's not a cricket-based decision, more family-based.''