Blackburn rule out Owen move

Blackburn Rovers have ruled out a move for Michael Owen, after boss Sam Allardyce confessed that he would not be interested in signing the England striker now that his contract with Newcastle has expired.

''I just question the injury scenario,'' Allardyce said. ''I need a striker that's going to be available for 30 games next season. That's not happened for Michael over the last four years.''

It is understood that Hull City are close to agreeing a switch with Owen's advisors over the next week or so.