West Ham United boss Gianfranco Zola admits he's desperate to work with crocked England striker Dean Ashton.

He told whufc.com: "We have played all season without Dean Ashton When Ashton is back it is going to be a huge thing for the club. We hope he will get a full pre-season.

"The [ankle] operation went well and he is doing very well. We are looking forward to having him back at his best."