Owen tweets: fans don't know the facts

Michael Owen Manchester United striker Michael Owen has hit back at the Newcastle fans who booed him

as he entered the pitch at St James’ Park on Tuesday night as the two sides played out a 0-0 draw. Owen came on in the 81st minute to replace Nani, but could not help his current side to three points.When Owen jogged onto the pitch, he entered to a mass chorus of boos from the home support, something that really disappointed the former Magpie. Speaking via Twitter, Owen said: “From a personal point of view it was nice to get on. Got a poor reception off the home fans which was disappointing. Was desperate to score!”

He also went on to mention his poor reception, something he believes was the result of ill-informed fans, stating that if they knew everything, they would think differently. He continued: “Knew I would get booed as that's what a lot of fans do but if they knew the facts then they may have a different opin[ion.” Owen also responded to criticism from Newcastle fans via the social networking site.He added: "For the record, I tried my best in every game for Newcastle. Under KK [Kevin Keegan] I played well and i'll never forget the 2 I scored against Sunderland."

The former England striker did however praise his former club believing that they definitely deserved the point they earned, but was ultimately disappointed United couldn’t win and significantly extend their lead at the top of the Premier League. He said: “Disappointing result but credit to Newcastle, they played well and put us under plenty of pressure especially in the first half an hour.”

After gaining one point, table-topping United extended their lead over Arsenal to seven points, although the Gunners have a game in hand, whilst Newcastle moved up to ninth with 40 points.