Owen an important part of United squad – Ferguson

(GSM) – Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson still considers Michael Owen as an important part of Manchester United’s squad.

After starting in United’s 3-1 Community Shield win over Chelsea, Owen did not feature in the Premier League opening victory over Newcastle United.

There is speculation over Owen’s future following Javier Hernandez’s arrival, with the 30-year-old in his final contract year.

However, Ferguson has reassured Owen of his future at Old Trafford.

“Michael has no worries about his situation,” said Ferguson.

“He is an important member of the first-team squad.

“The development our young players means we’ll have about 30 players available.

“I am very comfortable with the situation.”

Owen does not mind being frequently in and out of United’s team, but knows it is hard to sustain his form and fitness when he is not a regular.

“The hardest thing from my view is not playing certain games and then all of a sudden being called up and you are meant to be ready,” said Owen.

“You can do lots of work in the gym, but until you play you don’t benefit from those movement patterns.

“I felt good in pre-season in Ireland, but not so sharp at Wembley.”