The surgeon who operated on Michael Owen believes the Newcastle striker will be fit for England's Euro2008 qualifiers.

Owen, 27, underwent stomach surgery in Germany, which could have caused a hernia, and is recovering from a torn abductor muscle in his groin.

Owen is cautious playing Estonia on 13 October and Russia four days later.

But his surgeon Dr Ulrike Muschaweck told BBC 5live: "I think the game this weekend would be too soon but after that I hope he can play."

Muschaweck banished fears that Owen could risk aggravating an injury by returning to action so soon.

"The risk for re-injury is 0.2%, so next to zero," she added.

"The surgery went without any problems. Today is day two after the operation and he can start jogging.

"After five to seven days, depending on the pain, he can start training again."