Stoke City boss Tony Pulis admits that summer signing Michael Owen still needs to improve his fitness before he can make his debut for the club.
The former Liverpool star recently joined the Potters as a free agent after he was released by Manchester United at the end of last season and although he is chomping at the bit for game time, Pulis will remain patient before throwing him in.
"Michael has trained ever so well over the last couple of days. He is desperate to get going," Pulis told Sky Sports.
"But he needs a lot more football. He has done a lot of work by himself, fitness-wise, but playing games is a lot different from just running."
Owen could be in contention for his first Stoke appearance when the club takes on league leaders Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.
