Owen op goes 'extremely well'

7 september 2006, 09:40

Koen Freriks

Michael Owen can set his sights on a return to action after his second operation to repair his cruciate knee ligament "went extremely well."

The Newcastle and England striker travelled to America for the second time this summer to undergo the second part of two-stage surgery undertaken by specialist Dr Richard Steadman. The 26-year-old ruptured his anterior cruciate knee ligament during the 2-2 draw with Sweden in the World Cup in June and there have been fears he will miss the entire Premiership season.

Newcastle manager Glenn Roeder was thrilled by the news of Owen's progress and he told the club's official website, www.nufc.co.uk: "I've spoken to our club doctor Roddy MacDonald across in Colorado and he gave me the fantastic news that Michael's operation went extremely well. As far as Michael is concerned, he can now start to focus on playing again."