West Ham United hitman Dean Ashton has been forced to retire from football at the age of 26 after failing to recover from a long-term ankle injury.

Ashton, who last played a senior match 15 months ago, has never recovered from the serious broken ankle he suffered on international duty with England in August 2006.

He underwent several operations but was unable to return to full fitness and the East London outfit have now confirmed that he has been forced to retire after receiving medical advice and warnings regarding his long-term mobility.

West Ham chief executive Scott Duxbury told the club's official website: "This is a sad day and our thoughts are with Dean.

"I would like to place on record our thanks to him for all his efforts and wish him the very best.

"I would also like to thank the fans for their patience and understanding during what has been a difficult time."

Ashton, who began his career with Crewe before moving onto Norwich, scored 19 goals in 56 appearances for the Hammers after arriving at Upton Park in a £7.25million deal from the Canaries in January 2006.

It was reported last month that the Hammers will make a £7million insurance claim against the Football Association, as Ashton was injured in a tackle by Shaun Wright-Phillips ahead of the Three Lions' friendly with Greece.

The London Evening Standard reported Ashton is also likely to make a claim, although it is uncertain whether that will be against the FA or Wright-Phillips himself.

From us all here at ExtraFootie we would just like to wish Mr Ashton the very best in the future.