Owen Uplifted By Keegan Appointment

Striker Michael Owen has hailed the second coming of Kevin Keegan to the Toon.

Dispelling fears that there might be friction between the pair stemming from Keegan's time as England manager, Owen - whom Keegan has astutely named as the Magpies captain - has reacted positively to the 56-year-old's sensational appointment.

Owen had made some negative comments about the way he felt he was treated when Keegan was in charge of England. The perception was there was a rift between the two men as a result.

But Owen, 28, insists all that is in the past.

He told today's 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."

Owen has also addressed head-on the persistent rumour that his heart is not in it at St James' Park - a rumour fuelled by the media having linked him with moves away from Newcastle more or less since he joined the club for £17million in 2005.

The striker says he is more determined than ever to make his mark at Newcastle under Keegan.

"Anyone who is not uplifted by his arrival must have something seriously wrong with them," stressed Owen. "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.

Owen added: "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% right, I know I will do well here under the new manager."