http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog ... chael-owen

Is this a canny motivational tool employed with brilliance by Ferguson, or does it merely serve to highlight the new low-spending approach of Manchester United?

As I am a Newcastle fan, I think I have the right to say Owen is WELL past it.

He will score goals for Man U (anyone would) but he certainly isn't the player he used to be. He has lost all of his pace, and he is scared to challenge hard due to him being injury prone. HE IS, don't believe him!!

As for Man U, I will be surprised if that is there spending over for the summer.....Mind games are being used in my opinion.

I've known Newcastle fans make similar comments as you, but not quite as politely . In fact, I know fellow Liverpool fans who are unimpressed and let's not forget that Real Madrid supporters weren't exactly overwhelmed during his time there.

Basically, I agree that he isn't the same type of forward anymore but if he sets up camp in front of the opposition goal and waits for the ball to arrive he can still strike a ball when he's match fit.

Actually, watching your side last season Owen seems to have added a bit more heading ability to his game. Can't say I can recall him ever launching into many 50-50 tackles though!

It wouldn't shock me if there was another Brand Name signing in Manchester, but I think it would be for City.

Believe me, with my mates and at the match's I don't put it so polite

Anyone with an average footballing ability would score goals in that Manchester United team, as you will get so many chances and you recieve great service.

I have no doubt that he will score goals, probably around 10.

However, I hope Cappelo isn't blind to see WHY he is scoring these goals, and I hope he keeps him out of the England squad.

His medals showed he was a red, OWEN OWEN
Then he joined the mancs instead, GOIN' GOIN'
His pace has gone his legs are shot
Gonna sit on the bench alot
Michael Owen, where were you in 05?

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Not bad.

I have one to that exact tune about Cisse, but I won't put it up because it is about him being a paedo and a wife beater

We can always rely on the North East for the least complimentary chants about each others' players. That said the most likely reason for Owen getting the number 7 shirt is they didn't think anything particularly offensive rhymed with it and 11 is reserved for the Player of the Year.