Dowie backs Johnson to make final cut

Crystal Palace boss Iain Dowie insists Andrew Johnson is capable of stepping in for Michael Owen at this summer’s World Cup.

Johnson has been named on the standby list for England’s squad for the tournament in Germany, but he still has a chance of making the final 23-man party as Wayne Rooney is extremely doubtful after breaking a metatarsal bone in his foot, while Owen continues to struggle with a similar injury.

Dowie said: “Andrew is capable of stepping into Michael’s shoes if Michael does not make it.

“He is very brave, he has great awareness and movement, and he is an excellent finisher.

“In some ways, Andrew will be disappointed only to be on standby, but he still has a chance of making the final squad because of the injuries.”