Hammers in for Ashton?

  • by Graeme Howlett
  • Wednesday, 7th July 2004

West Ham are rumoured to be chasing Crewe's highly-rated striker Dean Ashton.

20-year-old Ashton is said to be high on the list of replacements for David Connolly, who looks likely to secure a move away from West Ham after just one season at the club.

Ashton - who is contracted to the Alex until 2006 - still managed to score 20 goals last season despite Crewe finishing just two points away from the relegation spots.

The highly rated striker - who stands 6'2" tall - has played for England at under-19 and under-21 level, and made his league debut at just 16 years of age, in a season in which he went on to score 8 times in just 13 starts.

THe real stumbling point would be Ashton's fee; with two years remaining on his current contract and his value around the £1.5-2m mark he would be well out of Alan Pardew's price range. A cash plus player deal would appear the most likely scenario were the Hammers to make a bid.

Dean Ashton - career stats

2000-01: P13(10) Gls 10
2001-02: P32(4) Gls 10
2002-03: P26(16) Gls 11
2003-04: P 46(1) Gls 20

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