Owen has tipped Newcastle United to have a steady season – but says Sunderland could face another scrap against relegation.
Michael Owen: “With no Europa League to contend with again this season, I can see Newcastle bouncing back from a disappointing last season.
“Alan Pardew hasn’t got the biggest of squads and there is no doubt the extra games compromised their Premier-League finishing position two seasons back.
“A host of injuries contributed to a poor second half of the season, but a 10th place finish wasn’t anything to be ashamed about.
“Having invested the Mathieu Debuchy money into signing half a dozen new faces, it would be no surprise if Newcastle haven’t unearthed another gem or two.
“I could be way out as Gus Poyet is a manager I rate and once a wave of optimism hits the Stadium Of Light, they can be a tough team to beat. The board have backed their man with some big money, but it’s questionable whether their signings to date will prove great value for money.”
But ... does anyone give a shit what the little turd has to say?