Carragher: Owen is better then ever

Bootle-born Carragher feels that Owen, who has already struck three times in just two pre-season friendlies after ending last season with 12 goals in his final 14 appearances, is ready to shown an ever-critical footballing that his best years are fast approaching.

Carragher said: "Michael's in the best form I have ever seen him at the moment. He was brilliant the way he ended the season in the treble season,
but he was even better at the end of last season. It probably didn't get noticed much because we weren't so successful.

"Michael Owen is one of the best strikers in Europe. He has already proved himself over many seasons. To be named European Footballer of the Year so early proves how good he already is."