Lift for 'devastated' Ashton

Steve McClaren today assured Dean Ashton he would get another chance to pull on an England jersey.

The West Ham striker was forced to withdraw from the England squad for the Euro qualifiers against Estonia and Russia with a knee ligament injury that is likely to keep him out for six weeks.

"I spoke to him on Monday and he was devastated," said the England manager. "I watched him play against Aston Villa on Saturday and when I left with five minutes to go he looked okay."

The former Norwich striker had only just won back his place in the West Ham team and was determined to force his way into the England squad.

He was initially called up by McClaren for his first match as manager - the 4-0 win over Greece 14 months ago. But Ashton missed the chance to make his debut because he broke an ankle in training the day before the game and was ruled out for the entire season.

McClaren said: "It's terrible for him to miss out again but I've told him not to worry. Once he gets his fitness and form back he'll be in contention for a place."