Owen gives Newcastle fitness boost

England striker Michael Owen could return to action in Newcastle's friendly against Valencia on Saturday after getting the green light to begin training after a calf injury.

Owen has yet to feature for Newcastle in pre-season because of the calf problem and a bout of mumps. But the Newcastle captain is set to return to training this week and boss Kevin Keegan believes he could feature against Valencia.

"Michael's training is going really well, and by the time we get back he'll be ready to train with the group," Keegan told the Evening Chronicle.

"The first game might be a bit too early, but the second game's a possibility. He'll be around the squad doing work with the ball, and getting back into it Tuesday or Wednesday."

Obafemi Martins could also return to face Valencia after recovering from a knee problem.