Michael Owen has now scored three times for Newcastle United from a deeper-lying midfield position after their 4-1 victory at Tottenham.

"It is his position at Newcastle for the time being," Toon boss Kevin Keegan said. "I said this is the position you have to play in this football club because that is where you are most use for us - and he said that's fine.

"He never came up to me and said 'I'm a forward'. I think he's enjoyed it."

Owen has not started an England match under Fabio Capello yet but Keegan added: "I think when the big games come Michael Owen will play.

"Fabio Capello needs asking why he hasn't played Michael because only he knows the answer."