Aston Villa FC

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• Manager:Gerard Houllier

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O'Neill dismisses Owen claim

09 Jun 2009 - 07:53:25

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Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill has rejected reports that he has offered Michael Owen a two-year contract to join the Midlands club.

Owen, 29, is expected to leave Newcastle United when his contract expires next month following the club's relegation to the Championship.

But O'Neill has dismissed suggestions that Villa is his likely destination on a deal worth a reported £3million per season.

"Martin O'Neill has dismissed stories suggesting Villa have offered Michael Owen a two-year contract," read a club statement.

"O'Neill has hit back after newspaper reports suggested the club were ready to hand the England striker almost £3million per season - with a further 12 month option dependent on injuries and goal."

Owen has been linked with a free transfer switch to several Premier League sides following the end of the season.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker was also reported to be considering retirement following an injury-ravaged four-year spell with the Magpies.