After seeing Michael Owen score on debut, Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson explained why he handed the England striker the No7 shirt.

"He'll be delighted to have got off the mark. I know he'll get us plenty of goals when it matters and that will be the time to appraise him," said the United manager.

"It was a typical Michael Owen goal. He was the only player to react when the ball broke loose.

"Our No 7 shirt has been worn by a lot of high-profile players and I knew the kind of experience and temperament that Michael has means he'll enjoy the honour.

"Others might not relish the challenge of wearing that shirt, but he will."