Ashton not worried by missing out on his debut

Dean Ashton today played down his disappointment at not making his England debut, insisting he is happy just to be part of the Fabio Capello revolution.

The West Ham striker had been expected to play a role in last night's 2-0 win over the USA at Wembley but was forced to watch on as Jermain Defoe and Wayne Rooney started the match.

Peter Crouch and Joe Cole came on as late attacking substitutions, but Ashton claims he is delighted to be considered after overcoming a season blighted by injury at Upton Park.

He said: "I'm pleased to be in the squad. Of course I would have loved to have got on, but I wouldn't say I'm bitterly disappointed not to have done. This is my first squad back.

"You can't expect to be playing straight away in a team like this." Ashton, 24, will continue talks this week with a view to securing his future at West Ham.

Newcastle were keen to sign the striker but, as revealed in Standard Sport yesterday, the Hammers are close to tying up Ashton to a five-year contract.