By Xinhua
London : Newcastle striker Michael Owen has been called up by England for their Euro 2008 qualifiers against Estonia and Russia despite doubts over his fitness.
The 27-year-old underwent surgery to resolve groin and hernia related injuries only six days ago but has already returned to training with his club.
Coach Steve McClaren named a 27-strong line-up Friday, which also included West Ham’s fit-again striker Dean Ashton, having his second international call.
Chelsea’s Frank Lampard was also selected despite missing recent games with a thigh injury, along with Stamford Bridge teammate John Terry, who played with a protective mask against Valencia Wednesday after fracturing his cheekbone.
Former captain David Beckham was still out with knee trouble, along with Manchester United midfield duo Michael Carrick and Owen Hargreaves, both absent due to injuries.
McClaren appeared determined to field Owen after his goals last month helped England back into second place in Group E.
England will face Estonia at Wembley Oct 13 and Russia in Moscow four days later in two key qualifying clashes.
McClaren spoke to Newcastle boss Sam Allardyce and he gave the England striker the green light for the double header, where six points would see England virtually into next summer’s finals.
“It’s incredible Michael is fit,” said McClaren. “Hopefully he will be fit to play Newcastle Sunday against Everton and then play in our two games.
“He says he is flying, feeling very good. If Michael Owen is fit, Michael Owen will play.”
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Paul Robinson (Tottenham), David James (Portsmouth), Scott Carson (Aston Villa)
Defenders: Micah Richards (Manchester City), Wes Brown (Manchester United), Rio Ferdinand (Manchester United), John Terry (Chelsea), Ashley Cole (Chelsea), Sol Campbell (Portsmouth), Phil Neville (Everton), Nick Shorey (Reading), Joeleon Lescott (Everton)
Midfielders: David Bentley (Blackburn), Steven Gerrard (Liverpool), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), Joe Cole (Chelsea), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Chelsea), Gareth Barry (Aston Villa), Stewart Downing (Middlesbrough), Ashley Young (Aston Villa)
Forwards: Alan Smith (Newcastle), Michael Owen (Newcastle), Peter Crouch (Liverpool), Andrew Johnson (Everton), Jermain Defoe (Tottenham), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United), Dean Ashton (West Ham)