Houllier happy to have Owen back

Last updated : 11 January 2003 By Chris Maxwell
The Reds boss believes the return of Michael Owen will boost the flagging confidence of the whole team.

He said: "Look how important he is for England. When he doesn't play their results are significantly worse, and he has the same impact on us. If he converted even a third of the chances that he has created for himself, then he would be far and away the highest scorer in the Premiership.

"But the main thing is he is creating chances for himself and that is so important. Everyone knows about his pace now so if he is to continue to develop then he needs to bring more to his game. He has done that this season. He makes things happen for himself and that is where he will be so important to us. I like players who make things happen.

"I like Michael's enthusiasm. In training the other day someone scored and even though he was at the other end of the pitch he celebrated like it was the winner in the World Cup final. When you see him like that you know it is time to put him back in the squad. Such enthusiasm rubs off on everyone. Nothing in life is achieved without great enthusiasm, and that is why he is so important for us."