Is Dean Ashton the Man for England?

For a long time now, I've admired a player called Dean Ashton, from his Crewe Alexandria beginnings through Norwich City and all the way to West Ham United.

The big centre forward has proved his ability in the top flight. But is he really the answer to England's striking problems?

That's the opinion of Ashton's Aussie teammate Lucas Neill.

Ashton is a class player who can score, lead the line, hold the ball, and create his fair share of goals. With that being said, he is also injury prone, and last year, he struggled to regain the form that nearly beat Liverpool in the 2006 FA Cup final.

This season, he's had a full preseason, and I really hope he can prove to the world that he's the quality striker I think he can be.

I last watched him on his debut for England against Trinidad and Tobago and if I'm honest, he hardly set the game on fire. Then again, it was a meaningless friendly.

Although, meaningless friendlies are how you win future appearances in an England shirt.

The 24-year-old has represented England at every level since under-17 and banged in four goals in nine under-21 appearances.

His stats aren't world beaters but he is a special player and his goals for Crewe, Norwich, and West Ham say that much at least. However, it was that FA Cup final show against Liverpool that convinced me that he's got it in him to be one of the best around.

On that day against Liverpool, I saw a world class player. It's a pity injury (the famous England injury jinx) struck him down.

We'll see this season if he has what it takes Mr. Neill, but I do believe you.

Dean Ashton is a terrific player Lucas, but you can't help him.

He'll have to do his talking on the pitch.