West Ham United striker Dean Ashton hopes to have shaken off a knee strain in time for the derby against Tottenham on November 25.

He told whufc.com: "It is always a massive game, especially for the fans. Obviously I would love to be a part of that to try and influence the game. They are all important games at the moment but I think that one just a bit special for the fans." Ashton returned to training this week and was hopeful of continuing his recovery on Thursday and Friday. However, he admitted the away fixture at Derby County this weekend was probably "just a little bit too soon" to add to his seven appearances, and three goals, this campaign.

He added: "Obviously I would love to play on Saturday, there is nothing more I'd like. "It is important that I am right when I do come back. It is no good for anybody if I just rush back after a couple of days training and then pull up. It is no good to me, no good for the team and it is no good for people watching. They want to see me playing week in, week out and so do I."