Ashton on... Ashton

Former Hammer Dean Ashton has been speaking about his playing career on Twitter.

Still only 28, Ashton admitted to followers of his social network account that he'd do anything to play once again - but is happy having finally adjusted to life outside of football.

The hugely-popular centre forward, who lives with his wife and children in a small village just outside Norwich was forced to retire from the game at the end of 2009 following a string of ankle-related injuries.

His problems stemmed from a training accident involving Shaun Wright-Phillips whilst on England duty in August 2006 that subsequently caused him to miss the entire 2006/07 season.

Although he returned for the 2007/08 season the ankle proved troublesome throughout and, only four matches into 2008/09, Ashton was forced to seek further treatment. Sadly he was never to return to first-team action and, at the ludicrously young age of 26, he was been forced into retirement.

Here follows a selection of questions asked by Dean's followers related to his time in Upton Park, plus one or two more general interest responses.


Ashton on... West Ham Utd

Was it your choice to leave Norwich for West Ham or did you actually get sold?
Honestly? 50/50.

What was the best thing about playing at West Ham?
The Upton Park atmosphere and history of the club.

How did you find the West Ham fans to play for?
They were great with me.

What did you think of Alan Pardew as a boss?
One of my favourites. A very good man manager.

Who was the best player you played with at West Ham?
Teddy Sheringham.

What was it like scoring and playing in the FA Cup final against Liverpool?
A dream come true.

Do you think West Ham will get promoted?
Defo.

Have you been back to watch West Ham since you left?
Afraid not. I keep a close eye on how they're doing though.

What is your favourite goal you scored during your career?
The overhead kick versus Man Utd.


Ashton on... football

What was your favourite ever pair of boots?
Umbro Specialli...White.

Which goalkeeper did you rate best as an opponent?
Pepe Reina.

Who was the hardest defender you played against?
Rio Ferdinand.

The best player you played with?
Steven Gerrard.

Which player would you have loved to played in the same team as in your career?
Wayne Rooney.

Who do you support?
I've never supported a team so now follow teams I played for.


Ashton on... life after football

What do you get up to these days?
Family, golf, gym, charity work and a bit of pundit work.

Did you plan for after your footballing days?
Not in the slightest! Shock!

If you got a miracle cure would you try and get back into football?
Does a bear shit in the woods?

Do you miss the buzz of match day?
Once every hour probably!

Have you ever considered coming back out of retirement and playing again?
I can never run again, I'm afraid.

Do you still play football?
A little bit of 5 a side.

Would you ever consider going into coaching/management?
I'm only 28 so there's plenty of time for that.

How's the ankle?
Fused, but mainly pain-free.

Are you able to jog on the ankle at all since you got it fused?
I can't run on it properly, no.

If you could change one thing in your career what would it be and why?
Not to be as lazy as I was when I was younger.