England coach Steve McClaren watched Manchester City beat Newcastle at Eastlands - then received some excellent news about star striker Michael Owen.
Criticism For Way Toon Handled Owen Injury!
McClaren had virtually written Owen out of his plan's for next month's crucial Euro 2008 double-header with Estonia and Russia after the 27-year-old suffered a groin injury against West Ham which threatened to sideline him long enough for Newcastle to order surgery on a stomach problem.
However, with Owen's groin problem not quite as bad as originally feared, the forward is now an outside bet to be back for his club's Premier League encounter with Everton at St James' Park next Sunday.
An appearance in that game would, in turn, free him for England duty the following week.
Allardyce: "All the speculation that we are neglecting him was rather distasteful as far as I was concerned.
"He is with the best in the world and that is why we are only talking about a few days of recovery.
"I couldn't rule him out of the England games but first we will get the injuries cleared up, then we will make a sensible decision for us and them.
"Michael has had keyhole surgery to strengthen both sides of his stomach.
"We don't quite know how long he will be out but the timescale is short, probably a matter of days, and there is a possibility he could be fit for the Everton game.
"He does also have to overcome this adductor muscle tear but it could be very good news for him and us because we need him back."