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.

“He tweaked his groin in training so he is a big doubt,” Kinnear said.

Kinnear, who returns to the dug-out following a Football Association touchline ban picked up at this days with Nottingham Forest, believes the comebacks of Beye, Martins and Jonas are a boost to the Tyneside club.

He said: “Having players back has lifted people’s spirits.

“It always does when you have people coming back from injury. People start looking over their shoulder and step it up.

“The icing on the cake would be to get a good result against Man City and keep that buzz going.”

Kinnear has also confirmed that Gerry Francis will not be coming in at United as coach.

Kinnear also admitted the current restraints at the club mean he can offer no guarantees when it comes to attracting any other potential coaches.

He added: “It was a difficult one for Gerry because I can’t give him a contract in any form or way. I think he has one at Stoke.

“So he doesn’t want to burn his bridges.