Kinnear defends Owen decision

Joe Kinnear is standing by his decision to ease Michael Owen back into action despite the Newcastle striker saying he's ready to start.

Owen had been used as a sub since returning from the groin strain he picked up in training last month, with Obafemi Martins and Shola Ameobi preferred by interim manager Kinnear.

And while Owen has revealed he is chomping at the bit for a start, and has been for "a couple of weeks", Kinnear is adamant he has been making the right call.

Kinnear told The Mirror: "I'd say he is about 80 per cent. He needs to be brought back gently. We know what Michael is capable of. No one asked these questions when we beat Aston Villa.

"Michael Owen is the best player at the football club. I have to make these decisions. Which ever decisions I make are never right."

He added: "I took off Spiderman (Jonas Gutierrez to boos from the crowd against Wigan) and you will have a field day with that. It is a difficult job making decisions isn't it? Whatever decision I make you'll go against it."