Free agent Owen signs for Stoke

Stoke City have completed the signing of former Manchester United striker Michael Owen on a free transfer.

The 32-year-old has been without a club since May following the ending of his United contract, but Owen has revealed on Twitter that he was confident of finding another club.

Owen sparked onto the scene at France ’98, scoring one of England’s most memorable World Cup goals against Argentina, however a succession of injuries have halted the former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Newcastle strikers career.

Sir Alex Ferguson took a gamble to bring Owen to Old Trafford, and after spending three seasons there, Owen managed just 52 appearances in return for 17 goals. While last season saw Owen take to the field just four times in a United jersey.

“We have been in talks for a while and it was a club I was always keen to join,” Owen said.

“I’m particularly excited at the prospect of working under [Stoke manager] Tony Pulis. He has assembled a great squad that I look forward to joining.

“I’m now looking forward to contributing as much as possible to the club and can’t wait to play in front of a great set of supporters.”

Sport staff