Keegan to rush Newcastle talisman Owen back for season kick-off

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The captain has seen his pre-season schedule ruined first by mumps and then a calf problem that stopped him even travelling with his team-mates on their Spanish tour, which ended with a 1-0 defeat by Mallorca on Sunday night.

He will miss the friendly at home against PSV Eindhoven, leaving him with just the final friendly against Valencia on Saturday to build form and fitness.

Owen has at least stepped up his training and has a chance of being involved on Saturday, but time is running out for the England forward with Newcastle's Barclays Premier League opener at Manchester United mere days away.

Owen: Struggling to be fit for Newcastle's curtain-raiser against Manchester United

'The first game (against PSV) might be a bit too early, but the second game's a possibility,' said manager Kevin Keegan.

'He'll be around the squad doing work with the ball and getting back into it on Wednesday. Michael's training is goingwell and by the time we get back he'll be ready to train with the group.'

Keegan's optimism hides the fact Newcastle have not scored in their past three games.

His only fit forward is Alan Smith and Keegan may have to gamble by fielding Owen at Old Trafford.

The striker's time at Newcastle has been troubled by injury, although he hit a rich seam of fitness and form towards the end of last season.

At that point, Keegan urged his board to tie the 28-year-old to a long-term deal.

So far, talks have still to see any resolution, with Owen a free agent next summer.

Keegan believes there is a desire from the player, who will remain captain next season, to stay at St James' Park despite three difficult years since he left Real Madrid in a £17million transfer.