Ashton ready for England call

Updated 09.21 Tue Sep 25 2007

Keywords: England, Steve McClaren, Euro 2008, Premier League, Dean Ashton, West Ham United, football, sport

Dean Ashton has insisted he is ready for an England call as Steve McClaren sweats over the fitness of strikers Michael Owen and Emile Heskey.

Owen could have to undergo surgery after picking up a groin injury while Heskey suffered a broken metatarsal having impressed as McClaren's men boosted their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2008 with victories over Israel and Russia earlier this month.

"I just have to play well for West Ham and it's down to Steve McClaren who he picks and I would be delighted if I was one of the players chosen for next month's Euro 2008 qualifiers" - Dean Ashton

But having completed his first full Premier League match since breaking his ankle during an England training session in August last year, Ashton is ready to stake his claim on the international stage for next month's qualifiers against Estonia and Russia.

The Hammers striker, who has scored on each of his last two appearances, said: "I am 100 per cent fit. I can last the games well and I feel strong and quick.

"As for sharpness, I'm improving day by day. It was a long time to be out so it does take time to get all that back but I am getting close.

"I just have to play well for West Ham and it's down to Steve McClaren who he picks and I would be delighted if I was one of the players chosen for next month's Euro 2008 qualifiers. I wouldn't be playing if I wasn't ready for an England call-up. I have been ready for a long time."

He continued: "It would be lovely to realise that dream of winning my first England cap but I have to be patient and hopefully it will come."