England boss Steve McClaren says Newcastle striker Michael Owen has returned from long-term injury an even better player.

McClaren said: "Michael has come back an even better and more complete player. His linkup play is better and he is even defending.

"He is world class. We have missed him for a year. If you give him the chance, you know he will score.

"He has come back with more vigour and more motivation. You can see that. There is always a concern in the player's mind when he has an injury like that whether he will come back as good as he was.

"Michael has lost none of his pace and he has shown he is not just a six-yard man. His game has evolved and that is something you cannot coach. It is born in you."