Owen Injured

Michael Owen's World Cup dream has suffered a major setback after Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson confirmed the striker would be out for "two to three weeks" with a groin injury.

It ends any lingering hope Owen had of being involved in England's final two qualifiers against the Ukraine and Belarus next month, and there must now be a huge question mark over the 29-year-old forward's ability to force his way into England boss Fabio Capello's plans before England head to South Africa next summer.

"Michael felt a slight groin injury after training on Sunday," revealed Ferguson. "He thought he was fine to play but on a wet surface, when he tried to turn quickly, it came back again. It is not a serious one and I am not worried because players do get them, but he will be out for two to three weeks."

He added: "The only good part is that his fitness levels are very good."