Former Newcastle United boss Joe Kinnear has revealed Everton tried to sign new Manchester United striker Michael Owen in January.

Kinnear rarely had a fit Owen at his disposal at St James' Park and revealed the striker almost left for Goodison Park at the turn of the year.

He told Sky Sports News: "He's right up there with the best of them.

"I like to think I played with one of the best strikers in the world in Jimmy Greaves and Michael has similar attributes.

"In the last window there was a chance of him going to Everton but that fell through and now he's going to an even bigger club.

"He's a great pro, he's very dedicated, he's a really nice lad and I'm sure Alex will get the best out of him."