Despite the striker defending his decision to travel to Russia, Toon chairman Chris Mort today revealed that the Magpies have never attempted to stop Owen representing England!
Mort Takes Sam's Side In Owen Predicament!
The national media are claiming there had been a major bust-up between the player and manager Sam Allardyce, but Allardyce has always maintained there has been no rift between the two of them.
Mort: "It is disappointing because the reality is that Newcastle United are delighted that England regard Michael so highly. It is quite right that they should because he is clearly a tremendous striker for his country as well as for Newcastle United.
"I appreciate that the pinnacle of every great player's career is not just representing their club in every way they can, but also representing their country.
"And I wouldn't want to hold any player back in their desires to play for their country. Michael is a prized asset to this club and we want to look after him but we appreciate that he wants to represent his country as well.
"Running a football club is a unique business, particularly with the profile they have within the community.
"There aren't too many businesses that have 50,000 people coming in on a Saturday afternoon and get as much Press coverage as we do. And any other business they would die to be as close to people's hearts as a football club like this. It is a very special business."