Michael Owen has hit back at accusations from Jose Mourinho that he is injury prone.
Magpies striker reflects on a productive 2008
Michael Owen has hit back at accusations from Jose Mourinho that he is injury prone.
The Inter Milan boss was speaking in the wake of reports suggesting he was preparing a January swoop for the Newcastle striker.
The Portuguese coach denied holding any interest in the England international, claiming Owen's fitness record gave him cause for concern.
"I haven't given Owen a thought," he said.
"The last year he has had serious injuries and he is no longer the player we knew."
However, Owen has now responded to those claims by insisting 2008 was a productive year for him.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid man has struggled with injuries in the past but missed just four games last year, scoring 19 goals in 40 appearances, as he began to show glimpses of the ability which made him a global superstar after bursting onto the scene at the 1998 World Cup.
"I have had a good year in terms of games and goals," he quipped.
"I have only missed four in the last year. Considering what is said about me it can paint a false picture. Just to miss four games in a year is good as is my goal ratio."
