Owen unhappy with contract talk

Updated 13.05 Sun Aug 26 2007

Keywords: sam allardyce, euro 2008, england, michael owen, newcastle united, football, sport

Michael Owen has revealed his frustration at speculation linking him with a move away from Newcastle.

A release clause in the England striker's contract means Owen is allowed to hold talks with any club that makes a bid over a set value, believed to be £9 million.

"There was a release clause in my contract that no one was supposed to be privy to" - Michael Owen

But the transfer deadline is looming at the end of the month and it seems Owen will remain at Newcastle.

Owen said: "I've only been at Newcastle two years and the speculation's been unbelievable. At the end of every season, people were asking 'Is Michael Owen going to stay or not?'

"Since I've been at Newcastle, people have been thinking I'll leave. A lot think there's an agenda but there's not.

"There was a release clause in my contract that no one was supposed to be privy to but if people go and mention that I can't help it."