England were defeated 4-0 in Australia in the previous Ashes, but have won 10 of the last 12 Tests since McCullum took over and Ben Stokes was named captain.

Who knows if we’ll win this summer, but we’re going to go out there with the right attitude, the right environment and the right team that believes it has a chance, McCallum told the British media Monday.

We’re a team that knows how we want to play now, and we’re not afraid to lose, which is a pretty remarkable trait, and that’s led by the skipper and some of the senior players.

If we play the way we want to play, we will give ourselves better opportunities, and we have the talent to put pressure on world class teams.

England must play Ireland in a one-and-done match beginning Thursday before the first Ashes test at Edgbaston on June 16.

McCullum said fast bowlers James Anderson (groin) and Ollie Robinson (ankle) will miss the test in Ireland because of injuries, but will be ready for the opening Ashes.

He added that all-rounder Stokes, who played for Chennai Super Kings in the Indian Premier League because of injury, could play his part with the ball during the Ashes.

Stokes is also progressing well. He looks really good, in great shape…I think he’ll be bowling at some stage during the summer, no doubt.

He’s a world-class versatile player, and if he can bowl, that would be fantastic. If not, we’ll find a way.