Kinnear Prefers Ameobi To Owen!

Last Updated : 17-Nov-2008 by
Owen quoted in the matchday programme: "I have only played as sub in the last couple of games. The manager has preferred to bring me gradually back in - but it was only a small injury and I've been ready to play for a couple of weeks."

Kinnear has prefered Shola Ameobi in the last couple of games, but Newcastle fans were desperate to see the introduction of Owen on Saturday as the game drifted towards a Wigan win.

When Kinnear finally made the switch, the England international transformed the game, and United could (and should) have won.

Kinnear (talking to the Daily Mirror): "It must be right then... I'd say he is about 80 per cent. He needs to be brought back gently. We know what Michael is capable of. No one asked these questions when we beat Aston Villa.

"Michael Owen is the best player at the football club. I have to make these decisions. Which ever decisions I make are never right.

"I took off Spiderman [Jonas Gutierrez, to boos from the crowd] and you will have a field day with that. It is a difficult job making decisions isn't it? Whatever decision I make you'll go against it."

Many Newcastle fans still don't feel Shola Ameobi and Oba Martins are a good striking partnership, and judging by the looks they have given each other in recent matches when balls have gone astray ... neither do they!

Similar players who don't seem on the same wavelength.

Owen has more to his game than 'arse up - head down - go for goal'. And the frustration is starting to show.

Owen wants a place in the starting line-up, and Kinnear AGAIN got it sadly wrong on Saturday.

We got a point only because Owen frightened the life out of the Wigan back-line, and it will be very interesting what the Toon part-time boss goes with at Stamford Bridge.