Ashton made his debut for England in last weekend's friendly win over Trinidad and Tobago, but the 24-year-old failed to impress and was substituted at half-time.

The former Norwich and Crewe hitman admits he still has a lot to prove and he has targeted a good campaign next season to keep him in Fabio Capello's plans.

"I waited a long time to play for England, considering I should have got my chance two years ago. Now it is a case of knuckling down. I haven't proved anything yet," Ashton told The Mirror.

"I have got to play well for West Ham next season to earn my place in the next squad and then go from there really.

"You only realise when you go away with England what a huge deal it is. It really struck me that you are a part of something unbelievable."