Michael Owen completes shock move to Manchester United
There are no greater lovers of horseracing in the football fraternity than Sir Alex Ferguson and Michael Owen, which seems fitting because a lot is being wagered on their unexpected coming together at Manchester United.
Having spent recent weeks wondering if a move to Hull City or Stoke City might constitute the glum sum of his options for next season, the dramatic upturn in Owen’s fortunes was complete last night when United announced the capture of the former Liverpool striker on a free transfer that, even by the standards of this extraordinary summer, is difficult to digest.
Owen, 29, has signed a two-year deal with the option of a third year after passing a stringent medical at a south Manchester hospital yesterday afternoon, with United satisfied that the striker, despite being plagued by injury in recent seasons, can flourish at the highest level.
The breakdown of Owen’s salary was unclear last night, but it is understood that the player will receive a relatively low basic wage by United’s standards — and a fraction of the £120,000 a week he earned at Newcastle United — but with the option of significantly boosting his income through bonus payments, depending on his success at the club.
After a whirlwind 48 hours, when Owen went from being invited to breakfast with Ferguson to signing for the Barclays Premier League champions, the questions will begin in earnest.
Will he stay fit? Can he recapture his best form? Will Ferguson revitalise Owen’s career in much the same manner he did Eric Cantona’s? Can Owen play with Wayne Rooney?
