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Owen top of Keegan agenda
Newcastle United, 09:23, August 27, 2008 ,
Kevin Keegan will urge Newcastle owner Mike Ashley to hurry up with a contract offer for Michael Owen when they meet today.
Owen illustrated his importance again last night with a late winner - his second in the space of four days - in extra-time against Coventry in the Carling Cup.
The fit-again 28-year-old is entering the final season of his present deal and Keegan will stress to Ashley that Newcastle cannot afford to lose such a "special player".
"Michael Owen is not only one player - he is a very special player," Keegan said.
"He is very important to this football club and my vision for it and if other people do not share that it is their problem.
"I do not say these things publicly for any other reason than I believe it.
"I know the kind of people you need at a football club. You can wait a lifetime for people who can help take it forward and he is one.
"My job is to manage the club and that is what I am trying to do. I am not trying to be awkward. I am just saying this is the way it is."