Owen scores on return from injury

The striker has been out since rupturing his anterior cruciate knee ligament at the World Cup last summer.

Owen, 27, scored after 10 minutes before coming off an hour later in a game which also saw fellow forward Shola Ameobi make a return.

"We are all, including the medical staff, very happy with the way it went," said manager Glenn Roeder.

Owen could now be in line to face Chelsea on 22 April at St James' Park and his return will be a boost to England coach Steve McClaren.

606: DEBATE

England face a crucial Euro 2008 qualifier in June in Estonia and Owen will almost certainly play a part if he makes his Newcastle return this term.

But Roeder said: "I have to say that playing an 11-a-side match on the training ground is still a long way from playing Premiership football."

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