Source: SKY_Sports
Owen remains optimistic
// A bit of a hack but it works// The article snippet is wrapped onto a second line, even when #article-sub is emptyif( $("div#article-sub").children().length == 0 ) {$("div#article-sub").remove();} Michael Owen is refusing to give up on his England ambitions, claiming he knows what is expected of him.[LNB] The experienced striker has been frozen out of the international fold by Three Lions coach Fabio Capello.[LNB]A loss of form during his days at Newcastle saw him slip out of the reckoning, while niggling injuries have prevented him from making the desired impact on the national boss.[LNB]However, a summer switch to reigning Premier League champions Manchester United has provided Owen with an ideal opportunity to prove his worth in World Cup year.[LNB]The 29-year-old, who currently has 89 caps to his name, insists he is capable of rediscovering the form which made him an England regular in his heyday, but admits he is not overly concerned by his continued omission from the squad.[LNB]"It's obviously nice to see England doing so well, but unfortunately every time a squad comes along I seem to have picked up a slight injury, like this time," Owen told Sky Sports News.[LNB]"Even though I'm back to fitness now and at Newcastle I was maybe a bit out of form, there has always been a reason. There's no excuses, I just need to play well for my club and score a few goals. [LNB]At ease"I've always been optimistic. I've never changed as a player. I will always score goals and I have got the record to show that. I think everyone knows what they will get from me and I have proven that at World Cups before. [LNB]"The last thing I want to do is start a campaign and say all the reasons why I could be or should be involved, I'm at ease with myself and the situation. I know what I've got to do and that's play well for Man Utd. [LNB]"There is plenty more to life if I'm not picked in the England squad. I'm playing for a top, top team playing for top honours, so we will see where it takes us."[LNB]Owen has also revealed that he has not spoken to Capello about where he stands for some time.[LNB]"Not about the situation recently, but I don't need to. I know the situation," he added.[LNB]"I need to play well and score goals for Man Utd. If I do that then I could get picked. [LNB]"But I don't lie awake at night thinking about it. It's a simple equation, play well and you will be in, don't play well and you won't be in."[LNB]
