Confident Owen eyes Sir Bobby's record

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Owen's two in Wednesday's 3-0 win over Russia at Wembley took his tally to 40 in 85 games and the 27-year-old is only nine behind Charlton's record total of 49.

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Hot shot: Michael Owen

Just recovered from knee and foot injuries that put his England career on hold for a year, Owen is confounding those who feared he may never return to the form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after strikers prior to his move from Liverpool to Real Madrid in 2004.

Owen said: "I am always confident, you know that. It helps to be mentally strong and confident.

"Everyone knows I have never been arrogant or big headed but I have always been a confident player. It always helps when you score a few goals.

"There might be a lot of people with more skill than me, but there are not that many who are mentally stronger.

"Whether it comes to long-term injuries or lack of form or receiving criticism, I have thicker skin than anyone. I never thought I would not come back."

Owen, the most potent English goalscorer of his generation, has not given up on winning a major international tournament.

He added: "I am still young. I have a long time to go before I start falling away. I'm only 27. I have good times ahead of me.

"We've a good group of players and despite what people have said over time, we know we can achieve things."

Owen also claimed he did not mind constantly being asked about breaking Charlton's record, saying: "I have been asked about Sir Bobby's record ever since I scored my 30th my 31st, my 32nd!

"Hopefully, I will be asked it nine more times if I'm lucky enough to get more goals and closer. It would certainly be a wonderful achievement."