West Ham United have suffered a selection setback after Dean Ashton ruled himself out for the rest of the season.The striker has absent from action since picking up an ankle injury in September but after intensive rehabilitation, was expected to return for the London club in the spring. He has, however, confirmed that his recovery will take some time longer."I think realistically pre-season is my target," said the 25-year-old. "I've just had an operation and the surgeons are pleased but obviously it's a set back I didn't really want. I need to get over this operation, get myself properly fit and I don't want to rush back before I'm ready."Ashton's time at West Ham has been plagued by injury but the England international remains a key figure in manager Gianfranco Zola's plans, particularly so after top-scorer Carlton Cole also sustained an injury in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Middlesbrough that could keep him out for a number of weeks.Despite this latest setback, though, Ashton remains upbeat. "Mentally I am strong enough to get through it but I'm like anybody else when I'm missing football. It's the worst feeling not being able to play," he said. "When I'm back fit then I'll try to get back both in the England and West Ham teams."West Ham UnitedPremier Leagueguardian.co.uk © Guardian News & Media Limited 2009 | Use of this content is subject to our Terms & Conditions | More Feeds
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