Owen issues Magpies pledge

[kennethlindheim]

Michael Owen has not ruled out playing again this term and has told the Newcastle faithful that he sees his long-term future on Tyneside.

The fleet-footed striker is on the easy list at present, having suffered an horrific knee injury during the World Cup finals.

Two operations later and Owen has dispensed with his crutches, but it is still a long road ahead for the former Real Madrid man.

Owen's Newcastle career has yet to really get off the ground, but he claims he is in for the long haul on Tyneside.

"I've had five weeks since my final operation and that means I might be back in six or seven months if everything goes fine," he told the Evening Chronicle at Wallsend Boys Club's annual dinner.

"I could play again this season which would be nice.

"In terms of how long I stay at Newcastle, I'm here as long as everybody wants me.

"I had four years on my contract when I signed last year, so I would say at least that length of time and then you'd have to ask the chairman for the rest."

Some suggested that when Owen joined Newcastle from Real Madrid last year he was using The Magpies as a stepping stone in his career.

Those rumours are still circulating, but the striker claims he is totally settled in the North East.

He added: "I do really enjoy Newcastle as a place. I have got two children here and they go to school here and they love it.

"Any parent knows if your children are happy, then you are happy.

"That is one of the main things.

"In terms of myself, I get out a little bit around Newcastle with a few of the lads occasionally.

"It is a lovely place and a lovely area and I have settled in really well."

Foot and knee injuries have blighted Owen's Newcastle career, but he is confident of making a full recovery.

"I hadn't had an operation in my life before I came to Newcastle and then I end up having four in a year.

"It is unbelievable, but this is definitely the last.

"I have never been injured for this length of time so hopefully this is only a blip and I'll be back."

http://home.skysports.com/list.aspx?...Magpies+pledge

[LAF]

Roy Keane was right, Owen should focus on recovering from his injury rather than licking arse in the media.