GIANFRANCO ZOLA has suffered an early blow at West Ham with Dean Ashton out for a month.
The striker is also out of England's World Cup qualifiers next month.
Ashton hurt his ankle on Zola's first day as Hammers boss on Monday.
Ashton said: "Unfortunately I've picked up another injury.
"I sprained my ankle in training on Monday and I'm looking at spending the next three to four weeks on the sidelines.
"I just went over on it. It happens to a lot of players.
"It's not too serious but it will take a few weeks to heal properly.
"I'm looking at about three weeks and then it's the international break. Hopefully I'll be back after that."
Zola will now be forced into a reshuffle for his managerial debut against Newcastle on Saturday, with Craig Bellamy likely to start his first game since February after a groin injury.
Zola's appointment has met with Ashton's approval despite his latest setback.
Ashton, 24, said: "It's definitely great for me as a striker. I can learn a lot from him.
"He is a nice guy - he's come in and has been really good with the players so far."
4 weeks for twisting his ankle?

