Newcastle United Football Club News

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

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

Owen proves his fitness

14 Aug 2007 - 08:12:55

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Newcastle United striker Michael Owen has given England boss Steve McClaren a major boost by coming through 60 minutes of a friendly match unscathed on Monday.

The 27-year-old, who has made only 14 first-team appearances for the Magpies in his two years at St James' Park, believes he is fit enough to feature in the Premier League clash against Aston Villa on Saturday.

Owen missed the opening day win at Bolton with a thigh problem, but played for an hour against Newcastle Blue Star.

With Wayne Rooney facing a two-month lay-off, Owen could come into McClaren's thinking for the forthcoming friendly against Germany and crucial Euro 2008 qualifiers.

Owen told United's official website: "It had me out for a couple of weeks but I've trained the last four or five days and I was confident I'd be fine and it was good to get back out on the pitch.

"It's a little frustrating to have missed some of the pre-season games but I've been able to do all the running work.

"It's only in the last couple of weeks when I might've missed a little bit of football and tactical work so I don't think I've missed much in terms of fitness and strength which is crucial and I've still been working hard in the gym.

"As a player you always look forward to the first game of the season and it's a little frustrating if you miss it.

"I probably would have played a part against Bolton but I'm pleased we took the decision not to play. It means I've only missed one game and now I'm available again.

"I'd been doing a bit of shooting practice when I just felt my thigh a little and probably hit one ball too many.

"I'm available again now and I feel fit and playing again was great. I'll train for the next few days and I'll be available for Saturday."