DEAN ASHTON has handed West Ham a boost by declaring himself available for Sunday's clash with Manchester City.

The striker helped himself to two early goals in Saturday's 2-1 win over Wigan, only to limp out of the action in the 73rd minute.

The 24-year-old complained of serious cramp and he was subsequently left out of Fabio Capello's England squad for the friendly with Czech Republic at Wembley on Wednesday.

However, scans have revealed that there is lasting problem and Ashton - who has been in red hot goalscoring form during pre-season - is eager to return to training with the Irons in preparation for the trip to Eastlands.

"It was just cramp. I should be training with the team on Tuesday," Ashton told the club's official website.

"I am really glad that it is not a bad injury. I am looking forward to joining in training tomorrow and getting on with playing.

"Overall, I am really pleased with how pre-season has gone for me and then to get off to a good start in the first game - especially with two goals.

"Hopefully I can keep that going on Sunday."