Toon over the moon at Owen signing

Newcastle supporters have reacted with joy and disbelief to the news that Michael Owen is close to signing for the club.

The England striker has agreed a four-year contract subject to the completion of a medical later today after the Magpies agreed a club-record fee with Real Madrid.

Ian Gilmour, of the Newcastle United Supporters’ Association, said: “I am totally speechless. I cannot believe it, if I am honest with you.

“I thought Owen was going to Liverpool and I am very surprised that he has come to St James’ Park.

“The signing of Owen is a momentous occasion and is just the same as when the club signed Shearer nine years ago.

“Owen is England’s number one striker and I give credit to chairman Freddy Shepherd and the club for pulling it off.”

Gilmour hopes Owen’s capture would spur the club on from a dreadful start to the season. They have yet to score after their opening four Premiership games.

“Owen will hopefully give Shearer some support up front this season,” he said.

“But with Shearer retiring at the end of the season I see Owen’s signing as one for the long term.

“Shearer will definitely retire at the end of the season and I honestly cannot see him staying on for another season, even with Michael Owen as his strike partner.”

Following Newcastle’s poor start some fans have been calling for manager Graeme Souness’s sacking.

August is traditionally a difficult month for United managers with Bobby Robson and Rudd Gullit both jettisoned before September.

On Sunday Newcastle lost 2-0 to Manchester United and have lost three of their games and drew the fourth against a West Ham team reduced to 10 men.

Despite the pressure on Souness, Mr Gilmour believes the signing of Owen shows the belief the chairman and board have in his managerial abilities.

“They would not give him that amount of money to spend on Owen if they did not have absolute confidence in him,” Mr Gilmour said.

“Souness has always said he was two players short of a quality side. With (Albert) Luque and Owen he has got them.”