Owen: Raring to go

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Michael Owen insists he is back to full fitness and ready to tackle Arsenal on Saturday.

The England international missed much of Newcastle's pre-season preparations with mumps and calf problems.

However, two goals in as many games since his return, both of which have been match-winners, has put the 28-year-old right back in Kevin Keegan's plans.

He feels fit enough to start at Emirates Stadium this weekend and, with the St James' Park treatment room already overflowing, may just get his wish.

"We've got so many injuries, with Shola Ameobi, Damien Duff, Alan Smith, Mark Viduka and Oba Martins out - so I think I am the last fit striker," Owen told the Evening Chronicle.

"We have got an important game with Arsenal coming up, but I am building all the time and, hopefully, I will start on Saturday now."

Realistic

Owen's latest strike came during a 3-2 Carling Cup win at Coventry on Tuesday.

The former Real Madrid man stepped off the bench to grab an extra-time winner and hopes the competition could help the Magpies end a 40-year wait for silverware.

He said: "We have to be realistic about things. The cup is obviously the main chance we have got.

"We would be stupid to say we can challenge Chelsea or Man United or anybody else.

"That's not to say the league isn't massively important for us. Obviously there is Europe and everything else that goes with it. The league is your bread and butter.

"But one of these days we are going to get the luck of the draw.

"Hopefully, we can progress in the competition."

Three Lions

Owen's recent injury troubles have forced him to sit out England's last three fixtures, but the striker insists he is available for selection should he be required for the upcoming 2010 World Cup qualifiers.

"I am available and the rest is down to the manager," he said.