Big Sam: Owen can't leave

Sam Allardyce has said that Michael Owen cannot leave Newcastle unless the club allow him to. The 27-year-old England striker is yet to start talks on a new deal, which Allardyce had said that would be handed to Owen provided he shows he is fit for 20 or more games on the bounce.

Allardyce said: "There's no way Michael can leave unless we want him to. Saying that, if Michael was as determined as some players are when they decide they want to go, that would be a different story."

The former Bolton boss also revealed that there is no exit clause in the contract of the former Liverpool and Real Madrid player.

Referring to reported interest from the rivals, he added: "You probably can't afford him. There's no clause in Michael Owen's contract now, full stop.”

On a new deal for Owen that hasn’t been forthcoming as yet, Allardyce replied: "At the moment, we're hoping Michael stays fit and plays continuously for Newcastle from now until the end of the season. If he does that, we can have a good look at the situation then."