Newcastle United boss Alan Shearer believes Michael Owen is the man to lead the Magpies to safety.

Despite not scoring in his last eight appearances, Owen can rescue the club from relegation and Shearer has the utmost faith in him.

"When you are a centre-forward and you haven't scored goals you are going to get criticised. I know that, he knows that," Shearer told Sky Sports News.

"It has happened before and it will happen again. He can handle that.

"We know that if we create chances, Michael will be there and Michael will score goals.

"It has been a concern because we have not created enough in the three games I have been involved in and that is something we need to change on Monday."