Newcastle United Football Club News

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

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

Owen targets Euro push

07 Nov 2008 - 08:34:21

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Newcastle United striker Michael Owen has tipped Joe Kinnear's side to make a surprise challenge for a European place this season.

Successive victories against West Brom and Aston Villa have lifted the early-season gloom that had enveloped Tyneside, and Owen is confident the team can build on their recent improved form.

"We know we're a decent team and we were in a temporary position," said the former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker.

"If we have a decent run to the end of the season, and we'd expect that with the players we have, then fifth, sixth or seventh is by no means impossible.

"With our back-to-back wins we're going to Fulham thinking we're capable of taking something from the game.

"It's still early in the season and a couple of wins shoots you up the table. The last two results have shown that and we're confident we can continue to climb.

"Joe Kinnear has steadied the ship. In every form of life you need to answer to one person - just to get a focal figure and know where the buck stops. Now we've got that and now we've had some good results as well."