Magpies banking on Owen

NEWCASTLE boss Graeme Souness is banking on Michael Owen beating Newcastle’s crippling injury crisis and lining up for one of the biggest games of his managerial career at St James’ Park tomorrow.

Souness expects his first Tyne-Wear derby to be every bit as big as similar occasions he has relished in Istanbul and Glasgow but believes the secret of success lies in shutting out the inevitable fiery atmosphere.

Pressure is mounting on the Magpies boss once again after defeat at Wigan last week coupled with a continuing injury crisis which this week sees hamstring victim Owen rated only “touch and go” to face Sunderland.