NEWCASTLE are hoping Michael Owen will be fit enough to feature in Sunday's must-win relegation clash at Aston Villa.
Owen missed last weekend's 1-0 defeat to Fulham after sustaining a groin injury in training, but could be ready to play some part at Villa Park.
The former England international underwent a scan on Monday that revealed no serious damage, and Magpies officials are hoping he will have recovered in time to feature in the final game of the season.
Newcastle boss Alan Shearer said: "He had a scan on Monday and there is no serious injury so were hopeful he'll be involved on Sunday."
Newcastle go into Sunday's game third from bottom and on the brink of slipping into the Championship, with Middlesbrough, Hull and Sunderland also in danger of joining already-relegated West Brom.
** READ MORE NEWCASTLE NEWS IN TOMORROW'S NORTHERN ECHO **
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