Michael Owen 'desperate' to face United

Stoke City striker Michael Owen has said that he is doing all he can to get fit in time for his side's match against Manchester United.

The 32-year-old joined the Potters in the summer having been released by the Red Devils at the end of last season.

Owen missed out on an Anfield reunion with another one of his former clubs Liverpool last weekend, and he is giving his all in a bid to feature against United after the international break.

"I was looking at it thinking Liverpool away and Manchester United away, it was going to be an interesting October," Owen.

"Obviously I missed the first one but I am desperate to be fit for the second one.

"The lads are playing out of their skin at the moment so it's hard to get in the team, but my fitness is coming week by week and I am really excited about the challenge ahead."

Owen started just six Premier League games in three seasons at United.