I have nothing to prove to Real Madrid, says Owen

MICHAEL OWEN reaffirmed his commitment to Real Madrid as he insisted his determination to fight for a regular place in Spain would not harm England's 2006 World Cup chances.

Newcastle and Arsenal have both been linked with the England striker in recent months, prompting Raul to publicly insist last weekend that only players committed to Real should stay at the club.

Owen was nevertheless keen to stress his desire to remain at the Spanish club, declaring his move from Liverpool to have been a success despite spending half of the season on the substitutes' bench.