Newcastle United

Wigan to make bid for Michael Owen in January?

According to reports, Wigan Athletic could make a fresh bid for Michael Owen when the winter transfer window opens. The Latics had tried to sign Owen from Real Madrid a few years ago, but lost out to Newcastle United. With Owen’s contract due to expire in the summer of 2009, and an extension not currently agreed upon by the player and Newcastle, Wigan might make another effort to sign the former Liverpool forward. However Owen’s wages could prove to be a stumbling block for the Latics. He reportedly earns around £120,000 a week at St.James Park.

Wanted man- Newcastle forward Michael Owen
Wanted man- Newcastle forward Michael Owen

Steve Bruce is also planning a winter bid for Owen’s teammate Nicky Butt.

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Joey Barton out for two months

Newcastle midfielder Joey Barton may not make any further appearances in 2008 for the Magpies after tearing his right medial ligment in the 2-2 draw against Wigan Athletic on Saturday. Barton lasted just sixteen minutes against Wigan before a challenge by Lee Cattermole saw him replaced by Danny Guthrie. He is expected to be out … Read more

Newcastle United 2-2 Manchester City

A late equaliser from Stephen Ireland broke Newcastle hearts as Manchester City escaped with a 2-2 draw at St.James Park.

Newcastle, playing without influential striker Michael Owen, received an early setback when defender Habib Beye was sent off in the 12th minute for a challenge on Robinho by referee Rob Styles. The former Real Madrid forward coolly converted from 12 yards to give City the lead. Styles was the referee who gave Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo a controversial penalty against Bolton Wanderers in September. Styles admitted to making a mistake in judging J Lloyd Samuel’s challenge, and television replays showed that Beye had a fair case too.

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