Shepherd, who has made clear his frustration over Owen’s injury-hit career at St James’ Park, said the striker had work to do to repay the fans. “Michael owes Newcastle quite a lot, I’ll put it as bluntly as that,” he said.

“He’s played more times for England than he has for Newcastle, so he owes supporters.”

Owen has played only 13 games for the club since joining them for £17million from Real Madrid two years ago. He broke a bone in his foot then suffered a serious knee injury while playing for England in last year’s World Cup. Owen, 27, missed yesterday’s 2-0 friendly win over Juventus, but Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce said the striker would face Hull on Wednesday night.

“I will be disappointed if Michael’s not playing some part,” said Allardyce. “And there’s a good chance that, if he doesn’t pick up any more injuries, he could play in our first Premier League game.”

He’s played more times for England than he has for Newcastle, so he owes supporters

Shepherd

Newcastle are ­thinking of arranging extra behind-closed-doors friendly games to help Owen build up his fitness. In May
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