Ferguson backs Owen to prove a worthy United number seven

ALEX FERGUSON believes Michael Owen will turn out to be a worthy wearer of Manchester United’s iconic number seven shirt.

Owen has been handed the shirt last worn by Cristiano Ronaldo to follow a tradition that also includes David Beckham, Eric Cantona, Bryan Robson and George Best.

The decision came as a surprise to some United followers, who were opposed to Owen’s arrival both because of his background as a Liverpool star and the fact they thought he was finished when he left Newcastle this summer.