Michael Owen will return to White Hart Lane on Sunday for the first time since he suffered a broken metatarsal there on New Year's Eve 2005. It marked the start of a frustrating series of injuries, which have hampered the 28-year-old's career at Newcastle United.
But Owen, selected in England's 1-0 defeat against France in Paris on Wednesday evening, is not afraid of returning to the ground, which almost cost him his livelihood. In fact, the striker, who scored in the 2-0 win over Fulham last weekend at St James' Park, is relishing the chance to get on the score-sheet once more and help secure Newcastle's Premier League status.
He said: "Looking back at that day it was a bad part of my career, it probably set the ball rolling for all the injuries I've had at Newcastle. "It was a troubled time for me but certainly I don't believe it's an unlucky place for me. I've played there many times and scored goals there before.
"I'm looking forward to it, I won't be concerned going into the game because we've had a decent week and pushed up the table a little bit." There could be a familiar face in the opposition's team, as Owen's former Real Madrid team-mate Jonathan Woodgate battles to be fit in time.
Woodgate joined the Spanish giants after a successful spell at Newcastle in 2004 and Owen claims the defender is still held in high-regard in the city, despite playing for local rivals, Middlesbrough.
Owen added: "Woody is a great friend of mine and he's friendly with most of the Newcastle lads really. "The Newcastle fans love him as well because he's a good lad and a fantastic player. I'll be looking forward to seeing him down there. Spurs are on an upward curve so anything we can get out of the game will be a bonus."
Newcastle are looking to take another step in securing their place in the top-flight for next season after flirting dangerously with relegation. Last week, their manager, Kevin Keegan, was visibly overjoyed at recording his first win during his second tenure at St James' Park. However, an away match at White Hart Lane could prove more tricky. While Newcastle are in search of some vital points, Tottenham manager Juande Ramos cuts a contrasting figure to Keegan.
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