Kinnear boosted by trio, but Owen out

NEWCASTLE manager Joe Kinnear was today trying to take solace from the fact that Habib Beye, Obafemi Martins and Jonas Gutierrez could all return to the fray against Manchester City after learning Michael Owen is set to miss the clash with a groin injury.

The returning trio would boost Kinnear’s chances of beating City as he looks to start his first game in charge at St James’ Park with victory.

But Owen is expected to be sidelined for seven to 10 days, ruling him out of the City match but giving him hope of being fit for the derby clash with Sunderland.