England News

• Nickname:Three Lions
• Founded: 1872
• Manager:Roy Hodgson

• Ground:Wembley Stadium
• Capacity:90,000

Capello offers Owen hope

01 Apr 2009 - 08:40:02

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England boss Fabio Capello insists Newcastle United striker Michael Owen's international career isn't over.

The 29-year-old has not been included in Capello's plans for the World Cup qualifier against Ukraine, even though Darren Bent's injury means three senior strikers will miss the Group Six clash.

"I know about the debate with Owen but I am focused on Wednesday's game, not players who are not here," said the Italian.

"But if you look back, in every interview I have done, I have always said the door is open to every player. The same is true for him."

Owen, who has endured another injury-ravaged season, has not started an England game since the friendly international against Austria in November 2007.

He won his last cap when coming on as a substitute just over 12 months ago when England lost 1-0 in France.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid star has scored 40 goals in 89 appearances for his country since making his debut more than 11 years ago.