That Number Nine

Last updated : 09 October 2005 By Footy Mad - Editor

Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd claims Michael Owen is the man to take over Shearer's number nine shirt and continue the long line of legends who have worn the shirt such as Hughie Gallacher, Jacki Milburn and Malcolm Macdonald. But isn't Owen happy with his number ten?

"Michael will take over Alan's mantle in the future," said Shepherd. "I hope he is here for the next 10 years. He can be a legend like Alan. He is a great character and he's a role model for the young players. He is a world icon.

"Our ambition for this season is to certainly finish in the Premiership's top six. Once we get the players back in the next few weeks we will be able to mount a great effort to get up there. We want the European nights back at St James's Park. That is why we have invested a huge amount of money in the summer.

"We are a big club, a worldwide club, we need to be in Europe. No one can question the desire to be successful here."