Owen set to miss England matches

[dmk]

Newcastle striker Michael Owen is likely to miss England's forthcoming friendlies against United States and Trinidad & Tobago because of a virus.

Owen did not report for England duty on Friday and is not expected to play against the USA at Wembley on Wednesday or in Port of Spain on 1 June.

Tottenham midfielder Jermaine Jenas is also out with an ankle problem.

Owen's absence will give the likes of Dean Ashton and Gabriel Agbonlahor a chance to stake a place in the team.

An England statement said: "Ahead of England's friendlies against USA and Trinidad and Tobago, the England squad has seen two changes

"Michael Owen was unable to report due to an infectious virus and is expected to be out for both games, while Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Jermaine Jenas reported with an ankle injury and has returned home.

"The nine players from Manchester United and Chelsea who were involved in the Champions League final in Moscow on Wednesday evening, will report for England on Saturday.

"David Beckham will report on Sunday, after LA Galaxy's game with Kansas City on Saturday."

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Hope Crouch get's a game.

[Peter Parka]

Nothing against Owen, but hopefully this will Deano a chance at last. just hope he dosen't suffer a huge injury again!

[ThePrayer]

what is the point in these friendlies?

shame about owen, would've been a good chance to get himself into capello's plans

[dmk]

Ashton & Defoe please. I reckon they'd be great together.