Keegan - Owen central to plans

Magpies boss aiming to build side around striker

By Lewis Rutledge   Last updated: 10th April 2008

Michael Owen smiles Newcastle v Fulham

Owen: Yet to sign new deal

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Kevin Keegan hopes Michael Owen signs a new contract at Newcastle so he can build a team around the striker.

Owen has repeatedly been linked with a move away from St James' Park and his contract is due to expire next summer.

Chairman Chris Mort is keen for Owen to commit his long-term future to the club and Keegan also wants the England international to be a mainstay of the side for years to come.

Keegan has been impressed by Owen's recent form and believes he can fire The Magpies to success in the coming seasons.

Wonderful

"Michael is a wonderful player," the manager told Newcastle's official website.

"I'm desperate to make sure we keep him here for a lot longer because you can build a team around players like him.

"He's in a fantastic run of form at the moment and looks like scoring a goal every time he goes out onto the football field."

Owen has scored in his last four games for Newcastle and is enjoying a run of 17 consecutive appearances.