Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was delighted for Michael Owen after he made his Old Trafford debut in yesterday's 1-0 win over Birmingham City.

United began the defence of their title with a 1-0 win over Birmingham thanks to Rooney's 99th goal for the club.

Owen then fluffed a last-minute chance to give the scoreline a more convincing look when he ran clean through but was denied by Joe Hart.

Rooney, who created the chance for ex-Liverpool striker Owen, said: "He got a great reception but that's to be expected.

"You can see his movement when he comes on. He'll take chances like that when he gets them."