THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
LONDON — Manchester United forward Michael Owen will miss the rest of the Premier League season because of a hamstring injury that needs surgery, ending his faint hopes of making England’s World Cup roster.
Owen pulled up with the injury shortly after scoring the tying goal during United’s 2-1 victory over Aston Villa in Sunday’s League Cup final at Wembley.
"Unfortunately, it’s more serious than we thought," United manager Alex Ferguson said Thursday. "He will be operated on on Monday morning. It’s a terrible blow for the lad and is disappointing news for us, too.
"He has never missed a training session all season. I think the heavy pitch at Wembley on Sunday made some contribution to it but, really it is just bad luck."
Owen has 40 goals in 89 international appearances, playing his last match for England against France in March 2008.
England coach Fabio Capello had said that if the 30-year-old played regularly for United, he could get a chance with the national team.
"I have loved every minute of my first campaign with Manchester United and have already enjoyed some memorable moments," Owen said. "I am determined to come back at the start of next season in peak condition."