Owen to Join Toon Army

Michael Owen has astounded us and all other right-thinking football folk by agreeing to sign a four-year contract at Newcastle after talks with the club yesterday. Owen also had talks with Liverpool but the Reds were unwilling to match the Toon's £17m bid. MORE

The BENNY C Column

Well, after all the will he? wont he? it appears that young Michael has decided to join Newcastle on a 4 year deal. Funny how things work out eh? It's nice to see that he isn't just ditching Real (yes that's Real Madrid for those at the back) for a chance to play in the world cup. (Ironically, not dissimilar to the way he ditched Liverpool - at least this time he made his feelings known)

I'm not sure it's the best idea for the lad though, I think that many defences in the Premier league now have the measure of Owen ( why do you think none of the "big 3" went in for him?) and his role may be largely ineffective. ( But Ben, I hear you cry, he is a great striker and surely this is great for England?)

I feel that Newcastle will always struggle while Freddy Shepherd is sticking his oar in. Yes he is a die hard Geordie, and no doubt loves the club but he should leave the footballing decisions to those that know what they are doing. (Not sure if Souness counts either - unless you want a team of violent thugs. Hey, wait a minute?)

A big name does not automatically assure success (Kluivert anyone?)

Newcastle are reportedly paying £17 million for the 25 year old because Liverpool refuse to budge on any more than £8 mill. What were they thinking? Not paying over the odds for a player we sold under a year ago? Must be crazy.

Well, I for one, wish him luck at his new club, and may he spend many happy years there (of course, until next time a bigger club gets interested)

And now that is all over let's get back to business........