London, Oct 06: Michael Owen's leg injury picked up in Liverpool's 2-1 defeat to Arsenal Saturday is not as bad as at first feared, prompting hopes that he will be fit to play for England against Turkey in the decisive Euro 2004 qualifier in Istanbul on Saturday.
Owen underwent a scan yesterday which revealed no damage to his ankle or knee but a split in the lining between the fibula and tibia bones in his lower right leg.
Owen landed heavily during the game at Anfield. Players from both sides rushed to his aid but he was able to continue briefly after treatment before finally being substituted. He hobbled off the field, leaving the ground on crutches afterwards.
Eriksson earlier delayed naming his squad until today afternoon. Everton's Wayne Rooney is the most likely replacement if Owen failed to make it for a game England need to avoid defeat in if they are to qualify automatically for Euro 2004.

Owen is to receive treatment yesterday and today from Liverpool's medical staff with a view to joining up with the England squad on Tuesday.


Bureau Report