England suffer Owen injury blow

Friday, 16 November 2007

England striker Michael Owen is expected to miss the Euro 2008 qualifier against Croatia on Wednesday.

Owen was forced off with a thigh strain in the friendly against Austria and may again face a frustrating spell on the sidelines for club side Newcastle.

The 27-year-old will be a major loss if England face Croatia with a realistic chance of Euro 2008 qualification.

England's hopes depend on Saturday's games when Russia's play Israel and Croatia visit Macedonia.

If Russia draw in Israel then England will need to beat Croatia but a loss for Russia would see England needing a point on Wednesday at Wembley.

A loss for Croatia would see England needing to beat them by two goals or more to book a place in next summer's finals.

More to follow.

Source: BBC Sport