Keegan optimistic on Owen deal

Kevin Keegan believes Michael Owen will be his best signing of the summer if the England striker pens a new contract with Newcastle at the end of the season.

Keegan insisted, even after captain Owen had spurned Saturday's best chance to extend Newcastle's winning run to four matches instead of settling for an unlikely goalless draw: "This is the position for him as our leader.

"People query whether he is committed to Newcastle but I think I'm close enough to judge that and he has told me he's really happy.

"He enjoys being at Newcastle. Does he want to stay? I would say yes with a capital Y.

"No matter who we sign this summer, no matter how big a name comes in and how much they cost, tying down Michael will be the biggest signing."

Keegan admitted his new 4-3-1-2 line-up, with Owen the busy link between midfield and strikers Mark Viduka and Obafemi Martins, is something that became almost compulsory with the players he has available.

Owen, sidelined for so long after severely damaging a knee in the 2006 World Cup finals, has scored four goals - 10 in all this season - since Keegan has played him just behind the two main strikers.

Now he is urging Capello to also play Owen in that position and added: "It could be a great solution for England.

"I've always said that when you look at the players you have they pick a formation for you.

"This one maybe seems very risky on paper but, in reality, it has proved difficult for other teams to play against.

"Michael is a great pro and I think he has really enjoyed playing it. I haven't asked him but I can tell by his demeanour, by the way he's applying himself.

"It has shown another side to him that I'm sure he knew he had, that he's a real team player."

Keegan was not always so complimentary about Owen when England boss himself but having made him captain of Newcastle he conceded: "Back then I didn't realise how good he is.

"And I think he can mature into a different kind of player now, a bit like I did."