Newcastle United Football Club News

• Nickname:Magpies
• Founded:1881
• Manager:Alan Pardew

• Ground:St James' Park
• Capacity:52,193

Magpies expecting Owen bids

08 Nov 2008 - 10:25:08

Click To Enlarge

Interim Newcastle United manager Joe Kinnear expects a large number of clubs to make bids for striker Michael Owen in the New Year.

The 28-year-old England international is out of contract at St James' Park at the end of the season and has so far shown few signs of being close to agreeing a new deal with the Tyneside club.

Kinnear said: "Of course it's understandable that other clubs are interested.

"He's a 28-year-old who has bags of ability and can score goals, so there must be dozens who want him.

"He will be spoilt for choice. I think Michael is probably in the best position, better than the position the club are in. Michael can't lose.

"I know what I would say to him if I keep the job - 'stay here'. But I have no idea who may come in. Who's to say it won't be Manchester United, Liverpool, anybody."

On Friday, Kinnear had dismissed rumours suggesting that Chelsea were preparing a bid for Owen in the January transfer window.

The Irishman had stated: "I have spoken to Michael about it and he is bewildered himself as to where the stuff comes from. He just doesn't know.

"Of course we want to keep our best players and I have made that known to Michael."