Hammers hold Ashton talks
19 May 2008 - 15:47:34
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- Hammers hold Ashton talks
West Ham United have described as "productive" a round of talks with Dean Ashton's representatives over securing the striker's long-term future.
Ashton, 24, still has two years remaining on his existing contract, but manager Alan Curbishley is keen to tie the powerful striker down to a new longer-term deal following speculation over his future since the end of the season.
The former Crewe Alexandra and Norwich City striker, who has netted 13 times in 43 appearances for the Hammers, has been linked with moves to Manchester United and Liverpool in recent weeks.
The Swindon-born striker joined the Hammers in a £7million deal in January 2006, but has suffered a succession of injury problems during his time at Upton Park.
"We had a very productive meeting," chief executive Scott Duxbury told the club's official website. "Dean wants to stay and we want him to stay.
"We are committed to finding agreement on a new long-term contract."