Sir Alex Ferguson: I have treated Michael Owen unfairly

12 February 2011 17:00
Sir Alex Ferguson has admitted he has 'not been completely fair' to Michael Owen.[LNB]A great trainer: Michael Owen (right) has impressed his manager at Old Trafford[LNB]The 31-year-old forward has been starved of opportunities during his second season at Old Trafford, leading to the general conclusion he will leave the club when his contract expires at the end of the season.[LNB]Owen has started just four games so far this season, yet he has still managed to bag four goals, the latest beginning the FA Cup comeback at Southampton a fortnight ago.[LNB]As the season enters its most crucial phase, Ferguson is acutely aware the 30-year-old's nose for an opportunity could be a very useful asset.[LNB]However, with Dimitar Berbatov, Wayne Rooney and Javier Hernandez available as well, the United boss is not entirely sure where he can squeeze Owen into his team.[LNB]'I keep trying to get myself into a situation where I can play Michael Owen more often,' said Ferguson.[LNB]'I haven't been completely fair that way. He is a terrific trainer and every time I play him he never lets me down.'[LNB]Understandably, given the impact he has had in a stellar debut season at United, Hernandez has tended to be the man Ferguson calls upon should either Berbatov or Rooney falter.[LNB] Still got it: Manchester United's Michael Owen celebrates after scoring the equaliser against Southampton in the FA Cup [LNB]However, as the campaign reaches its tense conclusion, Owen's vast experience may force Ferguson's hand.[LNB]'Michael is a phenomenal player in and around the box,' said Ferguson.[LNB]'You can make similarities in physique to Javier Hernandez. In and around the box, both of them are very dangerous players.[LNB]'The advantage we have with Michael on the run-in is that he has terrific big-game experience. It could prove very important to us.'[LNB] Tevez in derby drama! Manchester City striker's agony as daughter is hurt Manchester legend Denis Law: It's the 60s all over again with City challenging United to be kings of England Berbatov v Dzeko: Sportsmail speaks to the people who know them best Park could be out for a month as United midfielder tweaks hamstring in trainingBarber for Balotelli! New bizarre haircut is the latest buzz in the crazy world of Super Mario Three points beyond riches for City! Mancini desperate for derby day delightAll the latest Manchester United news, features and opinion[LNB] [LNB][LNB]  Explore more:People: Wayne Rooney, Dimitar Berbatov, Alex Ferguson, Michael Owen

Source: Daily_Mail