Rooney backs Owen for England

Wayne Rooney is backing his Manchester United team-mate Michael Owen to win his England place back.

Fabio Capello once again overlooked the Three Lions' fourth highest goalscorer when he announced his squad to tackle Holland on Wednesday.

Even though Owen scored four times on United's recent Far East tour, Capello still needs to be convinced the 29-year-old can operate at the highest level.

At least Owen has the opportunity following his surprise move to Manchester United.

And, knowing his former international colleague so well, Rooney is convinced Owen will get the goals required to win Capello round.

"I do see Michael getting back into the England side," said Rooney.

"Obviously it is the manager's decision but he has looked really sharp in pre-season and I am sure if he maintains that form, it won't be long before he is back in the squad."

Ironically, neither Owen nor Rooney took a penalty in Sunday's Community Shield shoot-out defeat to Chelsea at Wembley as misses by Ryan Giggs and Patrice Evra meant the Blues' four successful kicks were enough to seal victory before the striking pair had a chance to go for goal themselves.

While disappointed to lose, Rooney was encouraged by some of United's attacking play, especially in the opening half-hour when they created enough chances to seal the contest.

"A draw was probably a fair result," he reflected. "We played some good football at times, particularly in the first 25 minutes and should have scored another couple of goals.

"To concede two sloppy ones was not great, so we will have to work on that but overall we are reasonably satisfied."