Released Manchester United striker Michael Owen insists his football hasn't suffered over his love of horse racing.

He insists his passion for raceday will never supplant football in his affections, even when his playing days are over.

"Football will always be my main passion and horse racing is a distant second," he said.

"But footballers are often criticised for not planning ahead, you hear terrible stories about when footballers retire, about depression or having nothing to turn to, so it's about planning for life after football as well."