Newcastle manager Kevin Keegan believes Michael Owen can boost the club’s Premier League survival hopes.
The England striker equalised for Newcastle in their 1-1 draw with fellow strugglers Birmingham on Monday.
“A lot of people have been questioning him because he is a big-name player but he won’t stop scoring if you give him chances,” said Keegan.
“I am delighted to have a player like Michael at the club. His leadership and work-rate have been fantastic.”
Newcastle are on a run of 13 league games without a win and Owen’s goal against Birmingham was only his seventh of the season, but Keegan insists he has never had doubts about the 28-year-old.
“He is a clinical finisher and a very clever player,” added Keegan. “Michael is top quality and a world-class player, make no mistake about that.
“I asked Michael to play a bit deeper but he keeps the ball so well and has such great awareness that he could play anywhere.
“I told him that despite the fact he had to come deeper he would still get chances – and of course he did.”
Keegan believes his players are starting to find some form.
“There were some really good performances in Newcastle shirts,” he said. “I thought Geremi was outstanding and Nicky Butt and Joey Barton in midfield gave us a bit of an engine room.
“They all put in a shift and if they keep doing that we will be all right.”
