Owen eyes CL to salvage international career

Manchester United's Michael Owen believes Champions League football will be the key for him to regain his place in the England squad for the 2010 World Cup.

Owen, 29, has found himself sidelined by coach Fabio Capello due to his lack of first-team games. But with his career revived at Manchester United, Owen believes he could be on the brink of a recall ahead of next summer's World Cup finals.

Owen, expected to start against CSKA Moscow on Tuesday, said: "Obviously one of the big draws of coming to United is you are going to be competing at the highest level. That's one of the first things you look at when you are asked to join this club."

"There are many reasons to join this club but one of the big ones is the thought of playing on big Champions League nights. It is every player's dream. I can influence my chances by playing well and playing in the Champions League has got to help," The Sun quoted Owen, as saying.

"The last squad I was in was a year ago. It's something that other people talk about more than I think about. I've played for England 89 times and I would love to play for them again - that is the bottom line.

"But I don't go to bed thinking if I will play for England again. I think about playing well for Manchester United and the rest will take care of itself," he added.

Owen became a legend with England fans from the moment he struck that wonder goal against Argentina in the 1998 World Cup.

Last summer his whole career was suffering as he left Newcastle United on a free transfer only for Alex Ferguson to come to the rescue.

Owen said: "I've loved every minute of it. It has been everything and more than I hoped it would be. From the canteen ladies right through the staff, I've been made welcome and I feel as if I've been here for years."