|
|
Owen is desperate to play for Stoke but needs a lot more football, says Pulis
Sep 17, 2012 2:20:00 PM
The boss is being patient with the former England international's fitness but alongside midfielder Glenn Whelan believes his new signings mean progress for the Potters
Stoke City coach Tony Pulis has revealed that Michael Owen is "desperate" to play for his new side but is still struggling for fitness.
The former England international signed for the Potters after being released by Manchester United at the end of last season following three seasons of limited appearances and further injuries.
Owen made his debut for Stoke as a last-minute substitute in Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Manchester City, but Pulis warned that the striker will have to be slowly introduced to first-team affairs as he regains match fitness.
"Michael has trained ever so well over the last couple of days. He is desperate to get going," he told Sky Sports.
"But he needs a lot more football. He has done a lot of work by himself, fitness-wise, but playing games is a lot different from just running."
Midfielder Glenn Whelan - who joined the club before the Potters won promotion to the Premier League in 2007-08 - voiced his excitement at Owen’s arrival and believes it demonstrates the club’s ambition and growth.
He commented: "It is massive. The manager said when we first came in it was a building process each year and each year we have found that. Obviously the club has pushed on - new training ground, signing big players.
"Hopefully the fans are grateful for that and will keep coming and cheering us on but it is up to us to give them something to cheer about. It is a great club to be around at the minute because there is a big buzz."
| Sign up today with Ladbrokes and get a $20 welcome bonus! |
|
Related Stories
Inside Goal.Com
-
Like Owomoyela, like Sam
The German-Nigerian has been put in the dicey position of having to decide his international future after J Loew called him up last week
-
Why Real Madrid are appointing Ancelotti
After the decision to dispense with Jose Mourinho was announced on Monday, the Spanish side have set their sights on the PSG coach, and he looks like the ideal man for the job
-
Nigerians Abroad: Ike Uche scores
The 2012/13 league season ended in most European countries last weekend and some Nigerians scored key goals
-
-
Who is the greatest Champions League striker ever?
Enter our competition now and you will be in with a chance of winning one of four replica football shirts. Simply pick your favourite and subscribe to our YouTube channel
