Owen hits back at fans

The 31-year-old, who spent four years on Tyneside after a club record £16million move from Real Madrid, received a hostile welcome as he was introduced as an 80th-minute replacement for Nani during last night's 0-0 Barclays Premier League draw on Tyneside.

Responding to the boos via his Twitter account, he said: "Got a poor reception off the home fans which was disappointing. Was desperate to score!"

"Knew I would get booed as that's what a lot of fans do, but if they knew the facts, then they may have a different opinion.

"From what most of you Newcastle fans are saying, you should be pleased I left the club! If I had known that earlier I could have left sooner!

"For the record, I tried my best in every game for Newcastle. Under KK [Kevin Keegan], I played well and I'll never forget the 2 I scored against Sunderland."

Source: PA

Source: PA