Owen Looking To Keegan To Build Confidence!

Last updated : 01 March 2008 By Footy Mad - Editor

Owen: "When the defenders are thinking the strikers aren't going to score, or the strikers are thinking the defenders aren't going to keep a clean sheet, or the attacking midfielders are feeling they cannot express themselves in fear of losing the ball, it can be hard.

"If you are thinking, 'if we lose the ball, it could be in our net in a few minutes' time', it doesn't help, and that can run throughout every compartment of the team.

"But in saying all of that, if you could ask for one manager who is capable of instilling confidence on the training field, it is Kevin.

"Results are the thing that are frustrating us at the moment and they are the acid test at the end of the day.

"If you had asked me at the start of the season what my ambitions were, I would have been foolish to say anything other than to play the majority of the games.

"I had an horrendous knee injury which followed a broken foot that needed two operations, so I would have been foolish to say anything other than I wanted to play some games for Newcastle.

"I have done that and played in the majority of the games. I did have a thigh problem at one point in the season and had an operation.

"I missed one game and got straight back in and I scored on my return.

"But things could have probably gone better. I could have played more games or scored more goals.

"But in general, I am pleased with the way I feel and how fit I am.

"Hopefully I can keep on improving my performances."