Owen has to prove fitness to Capello

Nov 13 2008 by Mark Douglas, The Journal

FABIO Capello has reassured Michael Owen that his England career is not over, but dropped the strongest hint yet that a substantial run of games without injury is required if he is to play for his country again.

Owen’s international career has stalled since Capello took over, with the Newcastle United striker given precious few opportunities to stake his claim for a place in the England squad.

The 28-year-old has played no part in England’s competitive games in the Capello era and the England manager witnessed a ring rusty Owen miss a gilt edged chance at Craven Cottage on Sunday, throwing up further questions over his long-term international future.

Capello has moved to dispel suggestions that he does not believe Owen has the quality to make an impact for England, hailing him as a “wonderful professional” and asserting that he can still play a vital role for the national team.

It is clear, however, that Owen will have to rid himself of the niggling injuries which have plagued his time at St James’s Park. He is in line for a recall for United’s crunch clash with Wigan.

“I only ever call up the best players, or at least the players who are the most suited to the way I wish to play,” he told world governing body Fifa’s official magazine.

“Both Beckham, who I worked with for a year at Real Madrid, and Owen are wonderful professionals who could still play vital roles for England.

“I will never close the door to the national team on anyone, but you also have to remember that in modern football, only players who are in peak physical condition can make the most of their technical abilities.”