Owen admits he's short of pace

Last Updated : 08-Sep-2004 by
"I'm not 100% as quick as I was before my first hamstring injury three years ago," he admitted. "But I'm quick enough.

I don't think there is a comfort zone. I think I am playing on merit."

However, Owen's place is in jeopardy, with critics pushing for Jermain Defoe's inclusion in the side following Saturday's disappointing draw with Austria.