OWEN OUT FOR REST OF THE SEASON

Hammer blow for Red Devils striker

OWEN: Pulls up injured at Wembley

MICHAEL OWEN has been delivered a hammer blow with the news that he is out for the rest of the season.

The Manchester United striker was handed a rare start in last Sunday's Carling Cup Final against Aston Villa and hit the equaliser for Sir Alex Ferguson's side.

However, he was forced to limp off with a hamstring injury soon afterwards and Ferguson has confirmed he will not play again this term.

The bombshell ends any glimmer of hope Owen had of gatecrashing Fabio Capello's World Cup squad.

The former Liverpool goal ace requires surgery next week and Ferguson has reiterated that the terrible state of the pitch at Wembley played its part.

"It's a bad blow - he's out for the season," Ferguson said.

"Unfortunately it's more serious than we thought. He will be operated on on Monday morning.

"It's a terrible blow for the lad and is disappointing news for us too.

"He has never missed a training session all season.

"I think the heavy pitch at Wembley on Sunday made some contribution to it but really it is just bad luck."

Owen, 30, is only thinking about getting fit for the 2010/2011 campaign.

"Unfortunately the specialist says I will miss the end of the season," he explained.

"I have loved every minute of my first campaign with Manchester United and have already enjoyed some memorable moments.

"I am determined to come back at the start of next season in peak condition."

Meanwhile, Owen Hargreaves is pencilled in for a reserve team comeback against Manchester City's second string next Thursday after a year and a half on the sidelines.

Ferguson added: "Federico Macheda starts training with the first team again next week which is good news, particularly considering the loss of Michael.

"He is a good player to have back."