Ashton set for England call

Updated 09.24 Tue Oct 02 2007

Keywords: Premier League, Euro 2008, Steve McClaren, Newcastle United, Chelsea, West Ham United, John Terry, Michael Owen, Dean Ashton, England, sport

Dean Ashton is expected to be in Steve McClaren's squad for England's back-to-back qualifiers against Estonia and Russia.

The England boss will also be hoping injury doubts captain John Terry and Michael Owen will be available for the crucial matches.

The England boss will also be hoping injury doubts captain John Terry and Michael Owen will be available for the crucial matches

If Owen is ruled out of the clash with Estonia at Wembley on October 13 and the trip to Russia four days later, Ashton could be the man McClaren turns to as Emile Heskey is also sidelined by injury.

Ashton has been in fine form for West Ham since his return from 14 months out after breaking his ankle when he received his first England call last August, scoring three goals in his last four games.

McClaren said: "He has forced his way in. It was very disappointing about the injury at the start of last season with England. I have been watching him from pre-season onwards and he certainly comes into consideration."

The England boss names his squad on Friday and will be hoping none of his players pick up injuries when they turn out for their clubs in the Premier League this weekend.