Keegan shows support for Owen

Updated 08.28 Tue Mar 18 2008

Keywords: england, fabio capello, newcastle united, michael owen, birmingham city, kevin keegan, sport, football

Newcastle United manager Kevin Keegan believes Michael Owen is still a world-class player despite his disappointing goal tally this season.

England coach Fabio Capello watched from the stands as Owen scored the equaliser in Newcastle's 1-1 draw at Birmingham City, taking his total to five goals in 21 Premier League games since he returned from a knee ligament injury.

"He is still a world-class player" - Michael Owen

Capello left Owen on the bench for the friendly against Switzerland last month but Keegan is convinced the striker will force his way back into the England team.

Keegan said: "You don't just suddenly get match fit and then suddenly go and score goals. No striker does. It takes time but he is getting there. This is the first time he's got to eight games in a row for about two and a half years with the injuries.

"I think some people in this country might be losing a bit of faith but just look at his record. Even for Newcastle, his record is fantastic by anyone's standards.

"He is still a world-class player. I don't know what the England manager thinks, but that's what I think."