Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce is ready to delay Michael Owen's return.

Allardyce had pencilled in the striker for the weekend's home game against Derby County but yesterday the Newcastle manager admitted that could be optimistic.

"Hopefully Michael's going to get back into some form of training this week," said Allardyce, who has been without Owen since he damaged his thigh during the friendly in Austria.

"We'll keep our fingers crossed but Derby might be a bit soon for him."