Former Liverpool star hits back at Owen critics

Walsh, who played for the Reds during the 1980's, believes that Owen can surpass the achievements of the likes of Ian Rush and Kenny Dalglish in the famous Red shirt of Liverpool. Despite his great success, Owen has been the victim of the media and fans alike during a tough time for both himself and the club. Walsh feels that Owen's ability should be appreciated more then it currently is.

Walsh said: "Owen, like [Ruud] van Nistelrooy and [Paul] Scholes, is coming into form just at the stage of the season when Liverpool need him most, but what has been most annoying is how quickly people have got on his back when things haven't been going so well this season.

"He's such a high-profile player that when he's not scoring he gets such a lot of stick. I think it becomes a battle between player and the press.

"Ordinary season? Twenty-eight goals in a difficult campaign is hardly an ordinary season."