Southgate hails 'phenomenal' Owen

The Middlesbrough defender, who is set to be named as the Reds striker's vice-captain for the clash with Slovakia at the Riverside, knows only too well that the 23-year-old's immense achievements can often be overlooked amidst the hype of David Beckham and the gathering pace of Rooney-mania.

"Sometimes I think we overlook some of Michael's achievements," admitted Southgate.

"He has been in the side for so long, but to have been in the side for this long, and to have 50 caps at his age is a phenomenal achievement. Who knows how many he could go on to pick up?

"We are very lucky to have a striker like him and sometimes I think we take him for granted," he said.