Source: Eurosport
Owen ready to seize big chance
New Manchester United striker Michael Owen admits he leapt at the chance to join the Barclays Premier League champions after a surprise phone call from manager Sir Alex Ferguson.[LNB]The 29-year-old, whose contract with relegated Newcastle expired at the end of June, has signed a two-year deal at Old Trafford. Owen's poor injury record over recent years which blighted his spell at St James' Park was thought to be a major factor in the unwillingness of most of England's top clubs to consider taking him on a free transfer.[LNB]With the likes of Hull and Stoke publicly declaring their interest in the former Liverpool and Real Madrid player it seemed Owen was destined to have to accept a substantial drop in both wages and the standard of football which he craved. In fact, his advisors he had just begun negotiations with a number of interested parties before a surprise phone call from Ferguson changed the outlook on everything.[LNB]"I had just begun to talk to other clubs when out of the blue Sir Alex phoned me on Wednesday afternoon, invited me to have breakfast with him next morning during which he told me that he wanted to sign me," Owen told MUTV.[LNB]"I agreed without a moment's thought. This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I intend to seize it with both hands. I am now looking forward to being a Manchester United player and I am fortunate that I already know so many of the players here.[LNB]"I missed pre-season last year and am pleased that I will be starting at Carrington from day one. I want to thank Sir Alex for the faith he has shown in me and I give him my assurance that I will repay him with my goals and performances."
