West Ham’s medical staff are confident of Dean Ashton playing a part in the club’s battle against relegation despite a setback in the striker’s recovery from a broken ankle.

WEST HAM striker Dean Ashton has suffered a fresh setback in his return from injury, but manager Alan Curbishley has ruled out a move for Charlton’s Darren Bent to bolster his attack.

West Ham striker Dean Ashton has suffered a setback in his return from a broken ankle and is still waiting for the green light to resume full training.