Shay To Skipper Toon Tonight!

Last updated : 28 October 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor
Michael Owen is out injured, and Nick Butt will miss tonight's Premier League visit of West Bromwich Albion after playing through the pain barrier at the weekend.

Butt's absence means Kinnear will be looking for his THIRD captain and tonight is only his fourth game in charge.

Shay Given was handed the captain's armband when Butt was substituted at the weekend and the Republic of Ireland international will be favourite to land the honour ahead of Steven Taylor.

Meanwhile, Kinnear is "hopeful" of having Michael Owen back to face Aston Villa in six days after the striker's groin injury.
Mark Viduka is reckoned to be six or seven weeks away from a first-team return due to an Achilles problem.