Ashton ruled out of season for Hammers

West Ham striker Dean Ashton has been ruled out for the season having had further surgery on a troublesome ankle injury.

Ashton, 25, played four league games of the current season before breaking down with the same injury that ruled him out of the entire 2006/7 season.

The former Norwich forward recently had further surgery on his ankle, a second operation was completed recently that saw an ankle specialist fly into London in an effort to benefit the England striker’s rehabilitation period.

Question marks remain now as to when Ashton will officially return to action, with the club refusing to name a specific date.

Ashton said:
‘I’m looking to get myself back for pre-season now. I don’t want to come back unless I’m right.’

Carlton Cole was taken off early against Middlesbrough on Saturday and there is concern over his immediate fitness, leaving West Ham with limited striking options.