Curbs challenges Ashton
15 Aug 2008 - 07:22:38
West Ham United striker Dean Ashton has been challenged to become an England regular this season by Hammers boss Alan Curbishley.
The 25-year-old's progress has been slowed by a serious ankle injury in recent months, but he did make his international debut in the summer in a friendly against Trinidad & Tobago.
Curbishley said: "This is a big season for Dean. Fabio Capello spoke to him in the summer and he's taken on board what he said.
"What Capello has asked for is no different to what we've asked for and Dean has been working hard at it. I think you will see a difference.
"I'm looking for him to lead the line and score the goals that comes with that.
"At his age and the position he finds himself in, it's all in front of him. Everything is up for grabs and that includes the England spot.
"If you have that in front of you, you must do everything possible to take the opportunity. Last season he was still feeling his way back."