A compensation package has finally been negotiated for Newcastle United following the injury of Michael Owen in World Cup 2006 which saw the striker sidelined for over 10 months. Owen now aged 27 suffered ruptured knee ligaments in England’s game against Sweden in the World Cup last summer. He did not return to the first team until May 1^st this year when he featured in a game against Reading.

Since the injury Newcastle United chairman Freddy Shepherd has locked horns with FIFA and the English FA in order to receive just and sufficient compensation for the loss of a key player. After a year of talks it has been reported that Newcastle will now receive a compensation package worth around £10 million. The figure takes into account the players wages in addition to medical costs incurred during the period of injury. The sum has been fought for by Shepherd for a year and his perseverance has paid off.