Owen ‘very close’ to making a comeback

NEWCASTLE boss Glenn Roeder has admitted England striker Michael Owen is close to a comeback, despite ruling him out of a behind-closed doors friendly this week.

Roeder dismissed speculation the 27-year-old would return to action against a Hartlepool side tomorrow, although revealed he briefly considered unleashing him and Shola Ameobi after long fights for fitness.

However, Roeder insisted the £17 million man remains on course in his rehabilitation from knee surgery.