• Champions League

Owen makes unexpected return for Marseille clash

ESPNsoccernet staff
February 18, 2011
Michael Owen is a peripheral figure at Manchester United © PA Photos
Enlarge

Michael Owen should return for Manchester United's midweek Champions League game against Marseille after it was feared that he could miss the rest of the season with a groin injury.

Owen, 31, has struggled with injuries during his career and spent three months out from October with a hamstring injury, but reports suggested that his 'groin had gone' after a training session on Monday.

Now, the club have confirmed that while the striker will miss the FA Cup tie against non-league Crawley Town, he should be back in time for the Champions League.

"Michael Owen picked up a small injury during the week and is out of the Crawley game,'' Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed. ''It's disappointing because I was keen to play him. We could risk him but there's no point. He should be okay for Wednesday [against Marseille].''

Ferguson also confirmed that long-term absentee Antonio Valencia should return to full fitness shortly.

"Antonio [Valencia] has done a full week's training with the Reserves,'' he said. ''Mainly running, there hasn't been any contact. He's done very well. We hope he'll join us by the end of next week.''

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
Close

ABOUT COOKIES

To help make this website better, to improve and personalize your experience and for advertising purposes, are you happy to accept cookies and other technologies.

More Info Here Cookie Choices