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England: Shearer was instrumental in Newcastle move, says Owen [Wed Aug 31st, 2005]
London (Reuters) - Michael Owen says his former England strike partner Alan Shearer played a major role in his decision to leave Real Madrid for Newcastle United.
"Alan was a great help throughout and instrumental in my decision," Owen was quoted as saying in a column on the Times newspaper's website.
"I had spoken to him many times over the past few weeks and he should work for the Newcastle tourist board when he finishes playing football.
"He even offered to give up his number nine shirt but I have declined. Number 10 will do for me," added Owen.
The former Liverpool player, who has agreed a four-year contract with the Tynesiders, said he did a lot of soul-searching before making up his mind to join Newcastle for a club record fee of more than 15 million pounds (US$27.11 million).
"Although there had been a lot of agonising, and a lot of telephone calls, it was an easy decision in the end," said Owen, who had also been linked with a move back to Anfield.
"People will point out that, only a week or so ago, I listed Newcastle as the last of my options but circumstances change very quickly, as I have discovered.
"Given that I will be running out to play football in front of more than 50,000 of the country's most passionate supporters next week, I am not about to cast around for sympathy.
"I was uncertain a Liverpool bid would be accepted in time and I wanted to play for a club who really wanted me."
The 25-year-old former European Footballer of the Year has passed a medical and is completing the move to Newcastle today.
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