Ray Clemence Backs Manchester United's Michael Owen For England Return

Former England goalkeeper Ray Clemence believes Michael Owen's move to Manchester United could rekindle his role in the national setup.

Owen left Newcastle United to join the Red Devils on a free transfer this summer after his contract at St. James' Park expired.

The former Liverpool front-man has already found his goalscoring form during pre-season preparations, and Clemence is confident the striker can return to the fold in time for the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

"The one thing that Michael has proved is that he can score international goals against top opposition," Clemence told Sky Sports News.

"He's been part of the England setup since the schoolboy level, you can see how much he enjoys scoring goals in the white shirt.

"In the back of his mind he's thinking, 'If I can do it for Manchester United during a World Cup year, I can get back into the England setup'."

Owen is one of England's all-time top goalscorers, having found the net for the Three Lions an impressive 40 times before injury forced him out of favour with the current manager, Fabio Capello.

The 29-year-old could make his competitive debut for United against Birmingham City on August 16.

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