Forgotten man Owen in Ferguson´s plans

Sir Alex Ferguson is set to recall fit-again striker Michael Owen to the first-team of title challengers Manchester United.

Owen has not featured since October when he suffered a thigh strain during a Champions League group-stage victory over Otelul Galati.

After fighting back to fitness and impressing during recent training sessions, the 32-year-old looks set to be given a chance in the starting 11.

Ferguson takes his team to Blackburn Rovers on Monday, looking to go five points clear of title rivals Manchester City at the top of the English Premier League.

“Michael has been something of a forgotten man, which is a terrible shame because nobody deserves the kind of bad luck he’s had this season,” Ferguson told The Mail on Sunday.

“But he has been training really well and is almost back to complete fitness, which is good for him and the team.

“His return could not be better timed because he will provide us with valuable extra options up front.

“He is a top-class goal-scorer as he has proved with vital contributions since he came to United.

“He is also a terrific professional, who prides himself on what he is capable of on the football field. It will be good to have him back.”