Owen beaming at return to limelight

A UEFA Cup winner in 2001 with first club Liverpool FC, Michael Owen has revealed that the lure of UEFA Champions League glory was a major motivating factor behind his summer move to the Reds' fierce rivals Manchester United FC.

Top games
"You're always competing at the top level with Manchester United and that's probably one of the big reasons that stuck in my mind when deciding to join the club," said the 29-year-old forward, who arrived on a free transfer from relegated Newcastle United FC. "Champions League nights, top Premier League games – it's everybody's dream to play in games like that. It's very difficult to win these competitions but it's our aim and I'm delighted to be part of that. I've loved every minute – it's been everything and more than I expected. Fans seem to have taken to me and even sang my name, which is great."

Winning structure
Owen, who has scored seven goals in 23 outings in European football's biggest club competition but has failed to register so far in Group B, also discussed his relatively injury-free start to the season ahead of Tuesday's visit of PFC CSKA Moskva. "This club has a great structure behind the scenes," he said. "There's always a member of staff there to help you out, to give you a specific programme, whether it's weights sessions, yoga, etc. I've always done extra stuff throughout my career but I'm a quick player, and quick players are prone to little muscular injuries.

Body knowledge
"I've had a couple of big injuries in my career which were probably both linked, but neither were 'injury-prone' injuries," continued the United No7. "The older you get, the better you know your body. For example, in the last Champions League game I could feel something and came off in time, but had I stayed on for another ten minutes I may well have pulled my groin and been out for a month. I've been fit for most of my time here – I think I've only missed one game – which is very important when you join a new club and helps you feel part of the team."

England recall
The return to form and fitness of the ex-Real Madrid CF striker has prompted talk of an England recall under Fabio Capello, yet Owen – capped 89 times – is quick to play down his international claims. "The last squad I was in was over a year ago so it's probably something that you [the press] think about more than I do," he added. "I'd love to play for England again but I'm focusing on playing well for Manchester United. First things first, the rest will take care of itself."