Viva Ash Vegas

Dean Ashton has been speaking about his bid to return to full fitness ahead of the forthcoming season.

The 25-year-old United striker, who was spotted looking fit and lean in Las Vegas last week (see picture* above) admitted that he was unsure just when he would be ready to play again - but confirmed that his main target remains the beginning of next season.

“I’m looking to get myself back for pre-season now,” he said. "But I don’t want to come back unless I’m right."

Ashton, who missed the entire 2006/07 season after breaking an ankle whilst on England duty only managed a handful of games this season before the same problematic ankle prevented him from featuring on more than a couple of occasions for Gianfranco Zola.

With the striker only one year into a five-year contract it would perhaps be too early to suggest that next season represents the 'last chance saloon' for the former Crewe forward.

But with just 33 Premier League starts for West Ham since signing from Norwich three-and-a-half years ago under his belt another season of inactivity for Ashton would almost certainly result in the supporters, who have shown great patience with his unfortunate injury record, calling for a replacement.

* Thanks to KUMB.com member Mr Skid for the Ashton photograph.