Michael Owen out for six weeks with thigh injury

Manchester United striker Michael Owen is expected to be sidelined for around six weeks with a thigh injury sustained in a 2-0 victory over Otelul Galati on November 2. In that match, Owen made a near-post run on a Phil Jones cross and while stretching for the ball, he injured his thigh. The injury was not anticipated to be serious but a club spokesman revealed to ManUtd.com -- the club's official website -- that Owen would be out until around Boxing Day:

"Michael has a thigh muscle injury and will be out for six weeks or so."

Owen has made four appearances this season -- three of which have been starts  -- and has bagged three goals in that time on the pitch. The 31-year-old was clearly behind Wayne Rooney, Danny Welbeck, and Javier Hernandez (Chicharito) in the striker pecking order at United. However, he has played a role in the Reds' current Carling Cup run and it was anticipated that he would get more playing time in upcoming cup matches. Owen's injury may provide an opportunity for Federico Macheda and Mame Biram Diouf. Both youngsters have barely featured this season but either one could potentially take up the minutes that Owen would have played.