• Premier League

Michael Owen not one of Al-Shabab's options

ESPN staff
June 27, 2012
Michael Owen made one Premier League appearance last season © Getty Images
Enlarge

Al-Shabab have moved to play down suggestions the UAE Pro League club are on the verge of signing free agent Michael Owen.

Owen, 32, is available on a free transfer after his contract at Manchester United was not renewed this summer, with the striker having made just one Premier League appearance, as a substitute, for the Red Devils last season.

Stoke City have been linked with the former Liverpool striker but on Tuesday Al-Shabab released a statement via Twitter indicating they were in advanced negotiations over a deal.

However, club vice-president Khalid Bu Humaid told Gulf News: "There have been some talks and his agent is coming to Shabab Club tonight but there is nothing to confirm with regard to him signing or not.

"This is a general talk with no obligations. When someone calls us we listen to what they have to say and see what they have to offer.

"But this part of the world is not the market for Michael Owen anymore. Michael Owen is on the downhill right now. He's not one of our options. He's 32 and he only played a handful of matches last season.

"We'll listen to what his agent has to say and report that back to the coach (Marcos Paqueta), who is currently in Brazil."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close