Gerrard backs Owen to hit form

The 24-year-old striker, who has notched 25 goals in 59 international appearances, has yet to find the net in three group games for an England side inspired by Wayne Rooney.

While the Everton mans' four- goal haul has placed Owen firmly in the shade thus far, Gerrard expects his team-mate to hit form as hosts Portugal await Sven Goran Eriksson's side.

Gerrard said: "You have to give Michael great credit for his all round performance. He ran himself into the ground, set two goals up and was superb.

"I was trying to set him up at the end because that would have been the icing on the cake. But goals will come for him because he's absolutely brilliant."