Hitzfeld: Owen too hot to handle

Bayern Munich chief Ottmar Hitzfeld reckons Michael Owen could torment his countrymen in the World Cup qualifier in Munich.  

Hitzfeld witnessed Michael Owen's man-of-the match display in the European Super Cup final which Liverpool won 3-2.

Owen netted a fine effort just moments into the second half and made another.

Hitzfeld said: "Michael Owen is a world-class striker and he made all the difference.

"We just couldn't counter him. I'm not sure how many Liverpool players will be playing for England next week, but the ones that do are in good form.

"Owen's partnership with Emile Heskey shows that both of them work very well as a team. They can drive the ball home as a pair, they can really hurt defences and they have so much intuition between them.

"Those were the two who contributed most to winning the final."

Owen added: "This is a dream to win so many trophies in such a short space of time.

"We knew Bayern were a very good side, so to beat them is a real triumph for us.

Boss Gerard Houllier was not only pleased with Owen, but also Steven Gerrard, whose comeback from injury is perfectly timed for the September 1 international showdown.

Houllier said: "Sven must have been relieved when I decided to take Steven off. He had played 60 minutes and that's enough after his absence.

"I always think in terms of the players' welfare and their careers - you don't want to see them getting injured again. But he had done fine and I think he will be all right for the Germany game."