Shearer backs Owen to make late impact for Newcastle

NEWCASTLE legend Alan Shearer is hoping former England team-mate Michael Owen can help spark a rousing end to the season.

The 27-year-old returned to action after 10 months out injured in a behind-closed-doors friendly on Tuesday and scored in a 4-1 victory over Gretna.

Manager Glenn Roeder has insisted he will not rush back a man whose continuing recovery will be closely monitored by national coach Steve McClaren ahead of the Euro 2008 qualifier in Estonia in June.