Zokora: Owen worries us

Mar 30 2008 by Neil Farrington, Sunday Sun

TOTTENHAM’S players fear feeling a backlash from Michael Owen’s midweek England woes today.

Spurs midfielder Didier Zokora has admitted that Owen is the man causing his side most concern ahead of Newcastle’s arrival at White Hart Lane.

And Zokora is convinced the Magpies will steer well clear of relegation – win, lose or draw today.

“Newcastle are never easy opponents and even more so now,” Zokora told the Sunday Sun. “They are trying to escape the relegation battle and points are crucial to them.

“I expect a very fierce challenge from them on Sunday because they will want the win so badly.

“Michael Owen would be an influential player at any club, and it’s no surprise Newcastle have made him captain.

“If he returns to his best form, Newcastle will climb the table and get back towards the top. And he looks like he is nearing his best form.

“He will not be happy about not starting the game for England against France. He will feel he has something to prove.

“So everyone here knows we need to stop Owen on Sunday if we want to avoid problems.”

Zokora dded: “It’s really strange that Newcastle are struggling so low in the table. They have an excellent squad with good experience of the Premier League.

“But changing coaches too often always damages teams. Now, Kevin Keegan seems to have improved things and I think they won’t have too many problems going into the final games of the season.”