Source: Northern_Echo
Owen hits back after boos
MANCHESTER United striker Michael Owen has hit back at criticism from Newcastle fans following his return to St James' Park.[LNB] The 31-year-old, who spent four years on Tyneside after a club record £16 million move from Real Madrid, received a hostile welcome from Newcastle fans as he was introduced as an 80th-minute replacement for Nani during Tuesday's 0-0 draw.[LNB] Responding via his Twitter account, Owen said: Got a poor reception off the home fans which was disappointing.[LNB] Was desperate to score![LNB] He added: Knew I would get booed as that's what a lot of fans do, but if they knew the facts, then they may have a different opinion.[LNB] Owen, who earned £103,000 a week during his injuryplagued time with the Magpies, left in the wake of the club's relegation to the Championship at the end of the 2008- 09 campaign.[LNB] He defended himself amid further criticism in a series of later posts.[LNB] The striker said: From what most of you are saying, you should be pleased I left the club! If I had known that earlier I could have left sooner![LNB] For the record, I tried my best in every game for Newcastle.[LNB] Under KK (Kevin Keegan), I played well and I'll never forget the 2 I scored against Sunderland.[LNB] When I meet Newcastle or Liverpool fans, they all respect what I've done for their clubs.[LNB] In stadiums it changes, 1 boo and the rest follow.[LNB] By the way, I'm not looking for sympathy. As long as my family don't boo me when I walk through the door, I couldn't care less!!![LNB]
