Aldridge backs Owen to hit form

Owen has incurred the wrath of fans and critics alike with a series of missed chances in recent weeks. 2 goals in his last 14 games makes unfamiliar reading for Liverpool's most consistent goal-threat. Aldridge, though, feels that Owen will soon be back to his very best.

Aldridge said: "Michael Owen has come in for some flak this week but I'm a great admirer of his. Whenever the lad misses a chance, he's criticised doubly so because of who he is.

"Michael has gone through goal droughts before and has come out of them stronger. He got a hat-trick at Manchester City earlier this season after the critics had a go at him.

"At the moment his general play has been very good. It's just not going for him in front of goal.

"The important thing to remember is that he is still getting chances and the goals will come.

"Emile Heskey was clean through against Palace midweek and normally he would have squared the ball for Owen to make it 1-0 but he didn't. The club has probably told him to be more selfish and to start scoring more goals because fingers have been pointed at him this season."