When he left he couldn't resist a parting shot at the club saying: "Newcastle was never suited for my game, I play better in a winning team".
That just about summed up Newcastle's "Mr Parasite". And he confirmed it again today by saying he could retire if Manchester United do not award him a new contract.
Owen's current deal expires at the end of the season, and rather than join a 'lesser' club, he suggests he may call it a day.
Owen: "I would honestly love to stay but you will have to ask the manager about the long term. I could score at this level for many years and would love it to be at a top club like United.
"Whether I would want to be dropping down to a poorer Premier League team, I don't know. Yes I could score goals but I would probably get less opportunities and less enjoyment.
"I just don't feel my game is suited to a team that is really struggling. I won't drop down leagues."
"I have played in big teams before and played every game and I have played in a struggling team. I know which I prefer. When you play here, you play with quality.
"I'm on my second stage of coaching badges and management is a real possibility.
"Horse racing will always be a big part of my life but, if there's a job going forward, it will be in football."