Owen 'owes Magpies another year'
Michael Owen owes Newcastle another year, says Freddy Shepherd
Also In The News
|
England and India played out a draw in the second Test match in Mohali after the tourists reached the close of play on 64-1, chasing a victory target of 403. |  |
Wednesday, 24, Dec 2008 10:37
Michael Owen should repay Newcastle United's faith in him by playing on for at least another year, according to the club's former chief executive Freddy Shepherd.
Owen said this week that he will not consider his future plans or sign a new contract at the club until the summer, amid speculation that he is set to quit on a free transfer at the end of the 2008/09 season.
But Shepherd believes the England striker owes the Magpies after they stood by him through his elongated rehabilitation following a series knee injury he sustained in the 2006 World Cup.
"He has been injured a lot of the time since I signed him and he has barely played one in four games that he could have done had he been fit. He owes Newcastle another year," Shepherd said.
"He should remember what the club did for him, especially after his World Cup injury in 2006 in Germany. We looked after him and ensured he had the best care for the next year.
"I personally went to Sepp Blatter, the Fifa president, and as a result we got the international insurance changed to cover not just £50,000 of a player's wages but £100,000.
"Michael won't want to hear what I am saying but that's the way it is."
Shepherd also issued a veiled threat, questioning Owen's loyalties.
"They say there is no loyalty in football any more but this is an extreme case," he continued.
"He has been very well paid, handsomely paid, for four years and there should be some return for Newcastle.
"There should at least be a thread of loyalty."