Dean Ashton could be making a quick return to Carrow Road - if Newcastle United decide the former Canaries striker is the man to solve what has quickly become a striker crisis at St James' Park.

By CHRIS LAKEY

Dean Ashton could be making a quick return to Carrow Road - if Newcastle United decide the former Canaries striker is the man to solve what has quickly become a striker crisis at St James' Park.

The Magpies - who are heading south next month for Norwich club captain Craig Fleming's testimonial match - have been rocked by the news that England striker Michael Owen is out of action for five months after suffering cruciate ligament damage during Tuesday's 2-2 draw with Sweden in Cologne.

But while Owen would have been a major draw for Fleming's testimonial - on July 26 - there is a long list of names that Newcastle are reportedly lining up to replace him as they try to cope with the loss not only of a £17m player but also the retirement of the legendary Alan Shearer.

Ashton has been linked with a move to the north-east in the past, even though he has only been at West Ham for less than six months following his record-breaking £7.25m January transfer window move from Norwich.

And Fleming, for one, would be delighted to face his former team-mate.

“I'd look forward to giving Ash a kick,” he joked. “But seriously, Michael Owen could be out for some time and it looks like Newcastle are going to have to spend big to replace him. They've lost Shearer as well, and I've heard Ash's name mentioned, as well as the likes of out-of-favour Manchester United hitman Ruud van Nistelrooy and fellow Dutchman mate Dirk Kuyt.

“It could well be that they will come here with a major new signing on their books.

“As far as Michael Owen and England are concerned it is obviously very disappointing for both. Owen is a natural goal scorer and at that level they are few and far between.”

Newcastle's main concern will be to get a man in place as soon as possible so that he can play in the pre-season matches. Manager Glenn Roeder was already looking to replace Shearer and Michael Chopra, who turned down a one-year contract to join Cardiff City and Owen's injury has simply exacerbated his problem.

Tickets for Fleming's testimonial are on sale at the Carrow Road ticket offices and the Canary Store, Castle Mall, or by calling 0870 444 1902. Seats cost £15 for adults and £10 for concessions (senior citizens, students and under-16s) in Jarrold Stand centre seating and the City Stand lounges. All other seating is £12 for adults, £7 (senior citizens, students and under 16s) and £3 for under-12s.

Fleming has also set up a web site dedicated to his testimonial season, available at www.craigflemingtestimonial.co.uk.