Owen offered new contract by pessimistic Magpies
Updated on 15 December 2008
Newcastle have formally tabled their offer of a new contract to striker Michael Owen.
It is understood the Magpies have presented the terms of the deal to the England international's representatives and are now awaiting their response.
Manager Joe Kinnear had revealed that Owen, Nicky Butt, Steve Harper and Shola Ameobi, who are all out of contract at the end of the season, would be made offers this week.
He expects to sit down with all four to discuss the way forward having been given the green light by owner Mike Ashley.
However, Kinnear admitted that, while he is hopeful of persuading Butt, Harper and Ameobi to stay at St James' Park, he is less optimistic of getting a positive answer from Owen.
The former Liverpool and Real Madrid striker illustrated his importance to the club who paid £17million for his services three and a half years ago when he celebrated his 29th birthday with his 29th goal in their colours in the 3-0 win at Portsmouth.
Meanwhile, England manager Fabio Capello has insisted the door to the international side remains open for Owen.
After an injury-ravaged few years, and having been consistently overlooked for the national side, Capello gave the striker a real cause for hope.
He said: "I know he played very well and scored a goal. I always said the door of the national team is open for all the players.
"I will check him in January and after that I will decide if he is ready, if he is OK for the next squad."
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