Dean Ashton could well be available for a return to action next week according to Zola.

The Hammers striker done his ankle in training on Monday and according to the player himself, he faced 3-4 weeks on the sidelines. Zola has now countered that, insisting that he could only need a week’s rest.

“Deano unfortunately won’t be available this week. He will have to rest but he will be ready to start again next week….we will monitor his condition, but at the moment he needs one week to recover”.

Carlton Cole is assured of a start against Newcastle this weekend and Zola may pair him with new signing Di Michele, although Bellamy is another option.