Michael Owen (speaking in the matchday programme notes): "On a personal basis, I am glad the last fortnight is over.
Owen A Nobody In A Game Made For A Hero!
"I was angry with myself for missing that chance against Portsmouth and then disappointed to be left out of the starting line-up against my former club.
"I have known our manager ever since I started in the game and consider him to be a friend but there was no old pals' act as far as his decision-making was concerned.
"Though I was upset and felt that he was wrong - only last week the press pointed out that, even though I had only scored eight league goals this season, my conversion ratio was the best in the Premier League - what I can't fault is the way he handled the situation: strong, up front and honest.
"I also appreciate that rotation is part of today's game and any number of top players were left out of the Champions League semi-finals for tactical or other reasons.
"I wish you were able to see how professional and focused we all are.
"The management team have made certain that we are in the right frame of mind and each of us knows the job we have to do as individuals and as part of the team."