England legend Gary Lineker says Manchester United striker Michael Owen must be on the plane to South Africa.

In his column for the Mail on Sunday, Lineker wrote: "For me, the logic is simple: if Michael is fit, he will play games for Manchester United. And if he plays for United, he will score goals.

"Then it is up to Fabio Capello, but my view is that Michael is simply too good to ignore in those circumstances.

"Michael's movement and ability to find space in and around the penalty area is better than any of his rivals, although Jermain Defoe has made great progress in that area this season.

"And his temperament, something that should not be underestimated at major tournaments like the World Cup, is unquestioned.

"When England players look around the dressing room and see Michael Owen - European Player of the Year, World Cup star, slayer of Germany - with them, it will breed terrific confidence."