Owen harbours England dream

Michael Owen believes his move to Manchester United will help him force his way back into the England squad.

The former Liverpool and Real Madrid hotshot has fallen down the pecking order since Fabio Capello took charge of the national side but Owen feels his move to United will improve his chances of an England recall ahead of the World Cup in 2010.

"Obviously if I am fit and playing well then I have got a better chance of getting back into the England squad and I am sure my team-mates, with their quality, will help me to do that," Owen told Sky Sports News.

"If I play well then I'd like to think I can force my way back in. There are internationals coming up and I'd be a fool to say I wouldn't want to be a part of it.

"I think I have 89 caps for England and it would be great to add to that. There is a burning desire to do well for whatever team I play for."

Owen has a record of 40 goals in 89 appearances for England but the striker has hardly played since Capello took charge and was left out of the last round of World Cup qualifiers.

Punters who feel Owen's move to Manchester United could help them retain the Premier League title or force his way back into the England set up may wish to use their free bet to back the 29-year-old to return to form next season.