"Obviously, like most players, I want to get to as high a level as I possibly can and that means working as hard as possible every day," said Ashton, words that must be music to the ears of boss Nigel Worthington.
"My desire to push this club, and myself, to the Premiership and onwards and upwards is as strong as ever," added the 21-year-old.
While such talk is not uncommon in young players, England Under-21 forward Ashton looks to possess the ability and application to back it up. He showed in the top flight last term that he can cause problems to the best defenders, and impressed again in his first appearance back in the Championship, scoring once and hitting the woodwork.
The £3million signing's partnership with Leon McKenzie is one of the most feared in the division, and the pair look set to profit from the arrival of Dean Marney on loan from Spurs. Marney looked dangerous throughout his debut on the right of midfield, sending in the cross for Ashton's goal and providing some useful service from set pieces.
With England manager Sven Goran Eriksson refusing to rule Crystal Palace striker Andy Johnson out of his plans despite the Eagles' relegation, Ashton knows that a successful season might push him into the reckoning, particularly if he continues his good form for the under-21 side. City fans will hope that their prize asset can back up his words with more performances of the quality he has shown thus far.