Dean Ashton

Dean Ashton (born 24 November 1983) is an English former professional footballer. He made over 240 appearances as a forward in the Football League and Premier League for Crewe Alexandra, Norwich City, and West Ham United. Ashton was highly praised for his talent as a centre forward but had a career plagued by injuries. He was capped by England before retiring on 11 December 2009 at the age of 26 due to a long-term ankle injury sustained during international duty. Born in Swindon, Wiltshire, and raised in Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, Ashton began his youth career at Stoke City and Crewe Alexandra.