USA COULD GIVE ASHTON FLYING FINISH
THIS is no way for Chris Ashton’s career to end. The former England wing has been released by Worcester, after being released by Harlequins, after being released by Sale. That is a sad pattern. A wing who transcended the sport with his prolific exploits is in a career spiral. It started when he came home, so maybe it is time to go overseas again, for one last hurrah. This column has a soft spot for Ashton — a fun, engaging character who has been a boxoffice talent — so here is an idea for him: reunite with Ben Foden. There are short seasons in Major League Rugby in the USA, so Ashton could link up with his old Northampton and England side-kick, in New York. Ashton will be 35 in March and after the frustrations and troubles of the last few years, he might just relish a swansong in the States, where his showmanship would be a natural fit.