Pulis: Owen has nothing to prove

Stoke manager Tony Pulis insists striker Michael Owen does not have to prove himself to anyone despite an injury-troubled season.

Last Updated: 24/01/13 at 16:09 Post Comment   

Michael Owen: Has struggled with injuries at Stoke

Michael Owen: Has struggled with injuries at Stoke

Manager Specials

So who will replace David Moyes as manager of Everton after his appointment as Sir Alex Ferguson's successor at Manchester United? Wigan's Robert Martinez heads the betting. Check out the latest odds

The former England international has made just six appearances for the Potters since joining on a free transfer in September and, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, speculation is already linking him with a move in the summer.

However, he came off the bench to score his first goal for the club in Saturday's 3-1 defeat at Swansea and could be in contention for his first start in the FA Cup against Manchester City this weekend.

Niggling injuries may have restricted the 33-year-old to just 111 minutes of first-team football this season but now the striker is fit Pulis hopes to see the best of him.

"He has no point to prove to me or the players," said the Potters boss.

"Michael is Michael and he just wants to do it for himself as much as anyone else and you always want - and need - that.

"We think he is a good lad around the place and he's had injuries which have held him back.

"He gives us the quality you need. Coming off the bench and scoring a goal would have given him a real boost.

"Irrespective of whether you are Michael Owen or one of the younger players in the group, confidence is a major factor in professional football.

"I was pleased Michael came on and scored a good goal. He did well when he came on.

"I came in (to the dressing room) afterwards and asked whether it went straight in from Cameron (Jerome) and to see his face was a picture."

Owen played 45 minutes of a behind-closed-doors friendly against Derby at St George's Park in midweek.

That has helped push his claims for inclusion at the Britannia Stadium on Saturday but Pulis admits there are other considerations to assess.

"The lads worked really hard in the morning so to ask them to go out again, especially in this weather, to play a game was pretty difficult particularly for the older guys - not that Michael's old," he added.

"His attitude was fantastic. He is part of 20 players that I am thinking about (for the City game).

"There are other players who are knocking at my door as well as Michael.

"This club is not just about one player and it will remain that way as long as I am in charge."

While Pulis' options have been strengthened up front with Owen's return to fitness he is still looking to bolster his squad before the transfer window closes.

His interest in United States and FC Dallas winger Brek Shea is over, however.

"We enquired about whether we could bring him over, not managed to achieve it but we move on," he said.

"That didn't happen, draw a line under it. We're looking to bring one or two in to freshen it up as we need it.

"It is always good to have competition and maybe there are one or two areas we need to get players in just to keep people on their toes."

TEAMtalk Facebook Fan Page

The TEAMtalk fan page is a great place to meet like minded people, have football related discussions and make new friends.

Related News

Sky Bet

    • Retrieving latest Sky Bet odds

Most Commented

Readers' Comments

I

thought you were describing Bart Simpson there from the episode where he sold his soul to Milhouse. I wonder do automatic doors work for Michael Owen.

sulman
The Evaporation Of Michael Owen

R

afa Benitez has won more trophies (10) over the past 11 years than the rest of the current managers in the EPL combined, except for Alex Ferguson.

angry bird
Chelsea duo salute Benitez

T

he day Tonys hat goes missing for some bantz will be different story altogether..

TheBrestEver
Stoke probe 'banter gone wild'

Footer 365

New England kit is revealed

England's new Nike home kit has been unveiled ahead of the Three Lions' game against the Republic of Ireland next Wednesday.

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard says Jose Mourinho made him a better player

Frank Lampard has praised the man-management style of former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho.

Jose Mourinho moves closer to Real Madrid exit and Chelsea return

Jose Mourinho's Real Madrid fate will finally be sealed this week, paving the way for his return to Chelsea.

Mail Box

Arsenal Should Be Praised For Finishing Fourth

Arsenal fans are largely positive after their top four finish, whilst one wag suggest buying Bale from their rivals. We also have an interesting final mail. Enjoy...

James Collins Is Only 29. Tough Paper Round

He is one of a number of solid shouts for players that look old before their time. We also have the final words on lovely D-Beck and a rejection of end of season playoffs...

© 2013 British Sky Broadcasting Ltd. All Rights Reserved