The New Nation - Internet Edition

AFP, London

Michael Owen's preparations for a crucial Premier League game against Tottenham on Sunday have been overshadowed by a bitter row over comments made about England head coach Fabio Capello.

The striker, who scored in Newcastle's 2-0 win over Fulham last weekend, has defended himself amid accusations he made a scathing attack on Capello after England's defeat against France in Paris.

Owen immediately launched a defence of his comments and claimed his words were misconstrued and he was full of admiration for the Italian.

He said: "I was asked what I thought my role was in the team after two England games and my response was that you'll have to ask the manager. However in the papers that's been misconstrued and presented as an answer to the question 'what did you think your role was when you came on'.

"Headlines using words like 'clueless' are just words which I didn't use and mean nothing. I was answering a different question. I haven't been critical of the new management team. I've got lots of positive things to say about them.

"I've seen quotes attributed to me that relate to a question I was asked three months ago and they've been used to respond to something I was never asked. It looks like I've answered a question the night before when in fact it was weeks ago.

"Football is a team game and nobody knows that better than me. I'm a team player and I can only answer the questions as I see them.

"If I was asked the same question again - what is your role under the new manager in the future - I would say again that you're best asking him. Only he knows the formations and personnel he wants to use. All I can do is my best for Newcastle and, if I am selected, for England."

Owen returns to club duty on Sunday when Newcastle will look to take another step in securing their Premiership status.

Their manager, Kevin Keegan, was visibly overjoyed at recording his first win during his second tenure at St James' Park; however, an away match at White Hart Land could prove tricky.