Reds get their Owen back

The prolific 23-year-old England international has hit nine goals in just 11 appearances this season and his return after missing the Reds' last two games with a troublesome ankle injury will be a huge boost ahead of what is sure to be a difficult test at the Riverside.

"It's great to have Michael back. He's trained well this week and his return is a big boost for us," enthused Anfield supremo Gerard Houllier.