Michael Owen insists he is 'uplifted' by Kevin Keegan's arrival, and is more determined than ever to succeed at Newcastle.
Striker admits duo have 'unfinished business'
Michael Owen insists he is 'uplifted' by Kevin Keegan's arrival, and is more determined than ever to succeed at Newcastle United.
There were concerns that comments Owen made in his autobiography about the way he was treated during Keegan's time in charge of England could cause a rift between the pair.
But those worries were banished when Keegan made the striker captain for his first game in charge - which ended in a drab 0-0 draw with Bolton - since his sensational return to St James' Park.
Injuries have badly hampered Owen since his £16million move from Real Madrid in 2005, and the 28-year-old has failed to make an impact on Tyneside.
However, Owen is positive that the appointment of Keegan will see him recapture his best form, while insisting that his disagreement with the Newcastle boss is in the past.
Response
He told the
News of the World: "What I said in my book a few years back was an honest opinion and I stand by it.
"I don't see any need to take those words back - and from the comments Kevin made in his first press conference on Friday afternoon, he felt the same way.
"Anyone who is not uplifted by his arrival must have something seriously wrong with them. The fans and players are certain to respond.
"It seems there will be money available for him to spend on the team and he'll bring back the style of play the fans want, a way that lets me play the way I can be most effective.
Unfinished business
"Kevin has been quoted as saying he has unfinished business at the club and that's exactly how I feel.
"There has been loads of speculation which has left me in a no-win position. If I say nothing, people think there is something in the rumours but if I respond to them I would spend all of my week denying them.
"I have not been fit enough for long enough to show the fans what I can do but if I can stay 100 per cent right, I know I will do well here under the new manager."
