Retiring Stoke City striker Michael Owen is grateful for his farewell against Southampton yesterday.

The former England striker insists there was no better way to go, with all four sides of a sold-out St Mary's giving him a standing ovation.

"I couldn't have asked for any more, really," Owen said. "The Stoke supporters were fantastic, considering I've not had much of an influence on the team for the season I've been here.

"But they sang my name all game and I am really privileged to have the send-off. And the home fans as well, that was particularly special.

"So, it was a great day all round and pleased that we shared the spoils as well.

"Everyone's been coming up to me saying so many nice things and that they've enjoyed watching me play over the years.

"I won't name his name but even one of the Southampton players was saying that he used to watch my Soccer Skills video, so that made me feel a bit old.

"But it's nice that I've brought some pleasure to a lot of people and it's certainly been a pleasure playing myself. I've really enjoyed it and time to move on, as they say."