Newcastle United striker Michael Owen says he is faster and stronger than before as he prepares to make a comeback from a long-term injury that has seen him miss almost a year of football.

Owen has been out since last summer World cup match with Sweden when he sustained cruciate damage.

"I know for a fact that when I was 17 or 18 there wasn't anybody quicker than me in the league," Owen told The People. In my heart of hearts I know I'm not as quick as I was then, but I'm quicker than I have been for the last two or three years and I can do more.

"Okay, so I am not built like Alan Shearer. I am small and quick, but you get what you are given in life, and I have been given this body and I have to make the most of it.

"People will find it difficult to knock me off the ball, they can't shoulder-barge me too easily because I am low and nippy. Having speed and agility is good, but strength is important, too."

"I have had 10 months out and had to grit my teeth and work long hours to get back. Lots of people can come back from a cruciate injury, but not many people come back better from a cruciate injury. I don't think it has been a blessing in disguise - I know it has.

"I am positive this break has happened for a reason and it will prolong my career and allow me to play into my mid-30s rather than my early 30s."