Stoke City manager Tony Pulis has no doubts that Michael Owen is more than an impact substitute.
The former England striker joined the Potters on Tuesday after being made a free agent by Manchester United.
The 32-year-old has had limited game time due to form and injuries over recent years, but Pulis is confident that Owen can still produce the goods if he were to start a match.
"Michael's got the bit between his teeth and wants to play. He's more than just an impact sub. We want Michael to get himself fit, in the team and playing regularly again," said Pulis.
"We'll assess his fitness levels over the next three days and take it from there. It's important we see what level he's at before we push him. We're delighted with the deal we've got and feel it's well worth taking a chance with a player like Michael for all sorts of reasons.
"We believe, once he's match-fit, that he'll prove he can still score goals in the Premier League. People say he played only one Premier League game last season but he was available for a lot more United games but wasn't selected."
Stoke host Manchester City in their next league match on September 16.
Matt Cotton
