Owen: I Will Be Back

Michael Owen has expressed his disappointment at being forced to miss the rest of the campaign with a hamstring injury - but the striker has pledged to be back in peak condition next season.

The Reds' number 7 will undergo an operation to repair his injured hamstring on Monday, but he says that he has enjoyed "every minute" of being a United player, and that will spur him on in his recovery.

"Unfortunately, the specialist says I will miss the end of the season," he told ManUtd.com.

"I have loved every minute of my first campaign with United and have already enjoyed some memorable moments.

"I am determined to come back at the start of next season in peak condition."

The injury is desperately disappointing for Owen, and United, as he looked particularly sharp against Aston Villa in the Carling Cup final before the injury forced him off the field.

It also ends the striker's hopes of making this summer's World Cup in South Africa, but missing out on playing for United is at the forefront of his mind.