Anfield Reds - Michael Owen

MICHAEL OWEN Michael Owen, a product of Liverpool's youth system burst on the scene towards the end of the 1996/97 season with a debut goal in the away draw with Wimbledon. He was given his first start later that week when Liverpool met Sheffield Wednesday. Michael was a constant threat in that match but he couldn't get the goal his performance deserved, he was still given the Man Of The Match award for his whole hearted performance. Unfortunately for Michael he didn't have another chance to impress that season, as that was the final match.

At the start of the 1997/98 season Michael was still in the Liverpool side, as Robbie Fowler was carrying an injury. Playing alongside the experienced Riedle, Michael again showed his natural talent, again scoring an equaliser against Wimbledon.

With Fowler missing games through injury and suspension Michael was given plenty of chances in the first team, and in a Coca-Cola Cup tie against Grimsby he scored his first hatrick.

Michael (18) is one of the most promising players in England and now has a regular first team place and is sure to be an Anfield favourite for years come.

This year he hasn't impressed as much as people thought he would. Maybe the Fowler - Owen partnership doesn't work?.

BORN: Chester 14.12.79
HEIGHT: 1.76 m
WEIGHT: 70 kg
SQUAD NO. 10
GAMES: 23 (4).
GOALS: 43.

GOALKEEPERS: David James Brad Friedel DEFENDERS: Phill Babb Steve Staunton Stig Inge Bjornebye Vegard Heggem Dominic Matteo Rob Jones Bjorn Tore Kvarme Steve Harkness MIDFIELDERS: Jason McAteer Paul Ince Steve McManaman Jamie Redknapp Jamie Carragher Patrik Berger David Thompson Oyvind Leonhardsen STRIKERS: Michael Owen Robbie Fowler Karl-Heinz Riedle Sean Dundee