Source: Daily_Mail
Owen should be treated like a hero at Anfield, says Sir Alex Ferguson
Sir Alex Ferguson believes Michael Owen deserves a hero's reception when he runs out for Manchester United at Anfield on Sunday and has claimed the former Liverpool striker remains one of the best goalscorers in world football.
United manager Ferguson will have Wayne Rooney back in his team after the striker came through a full training session yesterday, but Owen will be on the bench at least against his old club as United attempt to make it five defeats in a row for their fierce rivals.
Ferguson said: 'Michael's record at Liverpool stands him apart. Michael played for Liverpool for over a decade and the goals he scored for them mark him down as one of their best-ever strikers.
'That should stand him in good stead with the Liverpool fans but it will be interesting to see what reaction he gets. Whatever happens, he's got the experience to handle it.
'There have been very few players who have played for both clubs. Paul Ince got a bad reception from our fans when he joined Liverpool. Michael may well get that again on Sunday but it is difficult to say.
Owen now faces a rough ride from the Liverpool fans who once adored him
'He had 10 or 11 years with them. But I don't think it will bother Michael. Everyone wants to be liked but I don't think it will bother him.'
Ferguson surprised everybody this summer when he signed injury-prone Owen on a free transfer after he left Newcastle.
He has scored only twice this season, including a dramatic winner in the 4-3 derby victory against Manchester City, but is likely to play some part at Anfield.
'He is capable of scoring in any type of match, including the highest level,' added Ferguson. 'He has done that throughout his career. He has got a proven record in that respect. We knew that when we bought him. If you are looking only at his c.v. then every club in the world would have taken him.
'The Liverpool thing was never mentioned when we met in the summer. I never even thought about it. I made my mind up about Michael and there was no negotiation. He was desperate to come.
It was so simple. He wanted to be back at a top club and have European football.'
With Rooney back in full training and Ryan Giggs also fit, United will be strengthened as they look to earn revenge for the two Barclays Premier League defeats inflicted on them by Liverpool last season.
