Owen given assurances over injury

Owen is optimistic about his future

Newcastle striker Michael Owen has been assured his cruciate ligament operation will not end his career.

The 26-year-old told The Times: "When I came round after surgery, the surgeon told me 'whatever makes you retire from football it won't be your knee'.

"Coming from a man as respected as Dr Richard Steadman, that was the perfect way to wake up.

"Perhaps it was seeing his office full of signed shirts and thank-you letters from dozens of grateful sportsmen."

Owen is in illustrious company, with the likes of former England striker Alan Shearer, ex-Sweden forward Henrik Larsson and Real Madrid's former Manchester United star Ruud van Nistelrooy also having gone under Steadman's knife.

And Owen also revealed how he has received plenty of encouragement during his recovery.

He said: "England boss Steve McClaren has been supportive, inviting me to drop by the England team hotel before the game against Andorra.

"It's nice to know that people are willing you to return, although I have been impressed at how the boys have played without myself or Wayne Rooney.

"It will be frustrating watching others rattle in goals for club and country but I am fortunate in that I don't suffer low periods when I am out with injuries.

"That is part of the mental strength that has served me so well - and which I am certain will see me banging in the goals in 2007."