Magpies chief holds Europe dream

Injury has blighted £18m Owen

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd believes his side can qualify for Europe despite their position in the Premiership and injury problems.

Graeme Souness has spent £50m on new players over the last year.

But injuries to the likes of Michael Owen and Scott Parker, and recent poor results, mean the 13th-place team will find it hard to make the top six.

"I don't know why it's being said we can't qualify. Nothing's been decided," Shepherd told the club website.

Apart from Owen and Parker, Steven Taylor, Shola Ameobi, Stephen Carr, Emre and Titus Bramble have also been struck down by injury while defender Craig Moore, has yet to play since arriving at the beginning of the season.

Supporters have also voiced their displeasure following a season of mixed results, with some calling for Souness to leave the club.

"This is a time for everyone associated with Newcastle United - from the boardroom, to the coaching and playing staff and all our loyal fans - to be positive and to go for it," added Shepherd

"Sometimes people can look at the negatives too much. Yes, we have injuries, but people shouldn't forget that we still have a lot of quality players and experienced internationals available."