Michael Owen has insisted that he is 100 per cent committed to Newcastle United.
Striker 100 per cent in Toon
Michael Owen has insisted that he is 100 per cent committed to Newcastle United.
The England striker was strongly linked with a move away from the club over the summer, following reports that he has a £9million release clause in his contract.
Owen, though, says there has never been any doubt about his future with Newcastle.
Committed
"I have only ever said positive things about Newcastle and always been 100 per cent committed," he told the Daily Mirror.
"Whenever I have been doubted I've always responded the best way I know by scoring goals. But I'm stubborn and won't be bullied into saying things."
Swipe
Owen also took a swipe at former chairman Freddy Shepherd - who at one point demanded the former Liverpool and Real Madrid star should confirm his commitment to the club.
"I don't feel I should keep coming out every week and saying I'm loving this, that and the other," he continued.
"There was no speculation until various pieces came out in the media saying 'if Michael Owen doesn't say this, then I'll tell him that Chelsea and Liverpool aren't interested.'
"My management company used to get phone-calls from boardroom level saying I haven't done this or I haven't done that, or we want more interviews on this.
"But when I'm injured I just put up the shield and take the abuse and remember who said it."
Hope
And despite the arrival of Mark Viduka and Alan Smith, Owen is ready to compete with them and Obafemi Martins for a starting role.
"Ever since I signed for Newcastle I have had a nightmare with injuries," he said.
"But I am confident I can stay fit and available, score goals and help the team bring better results."
