West Ham United posted a video on Twitter on Sunday, marking 12 years to the day since a seemingly-unassuming 2-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers in the Premier League at Upton Park.
You may remember, though, that this was the match Freddie Sears burst onto the scene, netting that late diving header off the bench on his debut and then failing to have any major impact in east London in the following years.
But it wasn’t Sears that fellow fans were focussing on in the comments, but rather Dean Ashton, who poached a sublime 39th-minute equaliser that day.
Supporters were keen to share the love for the 36-year-old who, according to one fan, is the best striker to have ever played for the club.
There’s little doubt that Ashton could have been something very special if it wasn’t for that ankle injury…
Honestly believe Dean Ashton would have become one of the Premier Leagues best strikers if it wasnt for England
— #GSBOut (@SKV2020_) March 15, 2020
Man I miss Deano. Such a shame about his injury. Think WHU been cursed on a quality striker for long term since his injury. Few have had a good half to whole season hit nothing substaining.
— Phillip Williams (@phillip11willy) March 16, 2020
Don’t show me videos of @TheDeanAshton , it’s still too soon 😞
— Ryan (@ryanheir88) March 16, 2020
Dean Ashton was the best striker West Ham have ever had and this goal was better than Bergkamps version
— Lee Mason (@LeeMason5) March 15, 2020
How good was Deano. 😪
— Simon Rattenbury (@Ratters1975) March 15, 2020
@TheDeanAshton making it look easy 😩
— JoshTappin (@JoshTappin91) March 15, 2020
Seriously tho how good was @TheDeanAshton, unbelievable striker 👊🏻⚒
— Rob almeroth (@almo_9) March 15, 2020
Dean Ashton tho🥺 such a shame about injury’s man
— A⚒FORD (@HarryZippyAx) March 15, 2020
