Michael Owen insists no new contract talks have been opened with Newcastle United.

He told the Evening Chronicle: "There have been no talks on either side about a new deal and nothing has been mentioned about my contract.

"I don't want this interpreted as being a snub on either side, it is just that there are more important things to sort out at the moment than mine or any other player's new contract, and that is making sure we stay in the Premier League.

"But if or when the club want to talk to me, then I am prepared to talk. I am still only 28 and I feel I still have a lot of years of football left in me."

A club spokesman confirmed there has been no dialogue between the two parties over a new contract.

He said: "We have not started any negotiations with Michael over a new contract."