Ashton backs Hammers’ Defoe bid

Former West Ham United striker Dean Aston believes his old club should sign Jermaine Defoe in January, the Mirror understands.

The Tottenham Hotspur striker has started just once in the Premier League this season, though he has two goals in two League Cup appearances, and seven in five in Europe.

The Hammers are almost certain to recruit a new forward when the transfer window reopens with their current selection having mustered just two goals between them in their ten top flight games.

Ashton, who was forced to retire at 26 following an ankle injury, says that Defoe is just the type of player needed at Upton Park while the 31 year old England international himself sparked rumours of a return after labelling his decision to move to Spurs in 2003 a mistake.

He has also recently been linked with a move to Toronto FC, who are currently managed by his former teammate Ryan Nelson.