Both Michael Owen and Shola Ameobi returned from serious injury in yesterday’s secretly arranged friendly game against Scottish Division One leaders Gretna – at Newcastle’s Little Benton training ground.

Both came through well in a game that was split into three 30 minute segments.

Michael looked very sharp and fit and was excellent in his link-up play and yes – scored an excellent goal and laid one on for Ameobi.

So not a bad comeback for Newcastle’s striker.

The game was secretly arranged with Gretna through Mick Wadsworth, Gretna’s director of football, who retains close links with Newcastle following his time at St James’s Park with Sir Bobby Robson.

Both Owen and Ameobi underwent surgery procedures at Dr Richard Steadman’s renowned clinic in Denver in the United States. Steadman’s clinic is one of the world’s best and he has operated on many famous players in the past such as Shearer and Ronaldo (Brazil).

There were some telling comments after the game from Gavin Skelton – one of Gretna’s defenders.

“If that’s what he’s like after nine months out of the game, I would hate to play against a fully fit Michael Owen,” admitted Gavin last night. “He won’t be match fit yet but to me he looks ready for the Premiership.

“The goal was the hallmark of a great striker. It was just a half-chance from the edge of the box but in a flash he had buried it in the bottom corner of the net with a right-foot shot.

“He didn’t smash it, it was just very clinical and brilliantly placed. He looked very sharp throughout and, although I can’t recall him having any more chances, his link up play was excellent.

“I didn’t notice him heavy breathing. Stamina-wise, you wouldn’t have thought this was his comeback game. We’re not a bad side in our own right but he’s the best we’ve played against. I’m glad I don’t come across forwards of his caliber every week.”

It looks like Owen’s return to the Newcastle side is not too far away and current speculation is that he will return for the home game against Chelsea on Sunday, 22^nd April – probably as a substitute.

But that game will now have added interest with Newcastle always performing well against Chelsea – and determined to win as many points as possible before season’s end – since 8^th position will very likely gain them entry to the Inter-Toto cup again.

Owen owes Newcastle big for the way he has been treated by both club and fans during his time at Newcastle and he knows it.

Michael may play a full game before the end of the season but with things the way they are - substitute appearances seem the best and safest way to use him in the remaining games - with next season being the real target for Owen to spur Newcastle on.