This evening, the Norwich City boss told BBC Radio Five Live in no uncertain terms that he wants to retain the club's record signing. He emphasised this fact by stating the bare truth that, without Ashton, his side are unlikely to be able to trouble the top of the Championship table.
"The simple fact is there's been no offers for Dean," said Worthington. "we're not looking for any, and we want to add to the current group if we can."
"I think that the biggest statement we can make is that, for us to have half a chance of working ourselves towards the play-offs, Dean Ashton needs to be at the club."
Twenty-two year-old Ashton was again linked with a switch to Manchester City this morning after stories touting moves to Wigan, West Ham, Charlton and Portsmouth have appeared in recent weeks and months. The striker only joined the Canaries less than twelve months ago, however, and signed a contract extension before the start of the season. Worthington believes his top scorer's education as a footballer will be served well by staying at Carrow Road.
"He's enjoyed his time here. He's learning and he's still got a lot to learn, and I see his education at this football club for the foreseeable future."