Shepherd: We won't rush Owen back

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However, the Magpies supremo will not allow the 27-year-old to represent his country until he is fully fit after seeing his club battle to get Owen back on the field following his metatarsal fracture in time for last summer's World Cup finals, only to end up on the operating table once again.

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A rare sight: Michael Owen celebrates in a Newcastle shirt but he has made just 11 appearances since his move in August 2005

Shepherd is currently engaged in a battle for compensation with the FA which could yet end up in the courts.

However, he is adamant he is only trying to protect his £17million investment.

Writing in the match programme for this afternoon's Barclays Premiership clash with Chelsea, Shepherd said: "Inevitably, media interest has focused on when Michael will play again, and the question has just as inevitably arisen as to whether and when he will be able to play for England in the summer.

"It is not a case of anyone wanting to stop Michael Owen playing for England - the crucial point is that we have to make sure that when he does come back, he is perfectly fit and nothing less.

"We cannot afford to take the risk of what happened last season happening again this time around.

"We have had huge support from the fans on this issue between ourselves and the FA, but we are merely fighting for what we believe we are rightfully entitled to.

"Nobody will be happier than me when Michael is back in action and banging in the goals again.

"But it will only happen when the time is right for both him and Newcastle United."