Blow for Newcastle as injured Owen to miss Old Trafford clash

Calf injury: Michael Owen

The England forward has not kicked a competitive ball throughout the summer and a behind closed doors friendly, scheduled to take place yesterday, was cancelled.

'It would be crazy on our part to try and short cut it just because it's Michael Owen,” admitted Kevin Keegan.

'Michael is back in training but I think to be honest Manchester United will come a bit early.

'It's no good trying to kid people. He just needs a week in with the group doing all the things he needs to do and we’re not going to get that into him now so I think it's very, very doubtful. We treat him the same as any other player.'

Keegan now faces a major dilemma for his side’s opening game at Old Trafford on Sunday at the end of a testing summer. Oba Martins is troubled with a knee injury and Mark Viduka is not fit after an Achilles operation, leaving Alan Smith, the subject of an unsuccessful bid from Everton, as his only fit striker.

He could play Damien Duff in the forward position he has scored four goals from in pre-season friendlies but new signing Jonas Gutierrez is unlikely to be able to play because of problems over his move from Spain.

Real Mallorca are seeking compensation and are withholding the winger’s registration.

'We can confirm that the matter concerning the player is currently pending and under investigation within FIFA,' said a Fifa spokesman.

Newcastle do, finally, expect to announce the completion of Fabricio Coloccini’s £9.1 million transfer today.