MICHAEL OWEN’S appointment as Liverpool’s first official international ambassador has not been met well by some Anfield supporters still disgruntled by his decision to join arch-rivals Manchester United.
The role will see the former England striker engage with fans across the globe, while also representing the club at various supporter and commercial events.
Owen came through the Liverpool youth system before scoring 158 goals in 297 appearances across seven seasons for the Reds. He was an integral part of the 2001 treble-winning team, most notably scoring a brace in a come-from-behind FA Cup final triumph over Arsenal.
However, his departure to Real Madrid in 2004 and, even more so, his subsequent decision to join United left a sour taste in some supporters’ mouths – and clearly they have not forgiven their former hero..
Many Liverpool fans vented their frustration on social media following the announcement, with comments including “Man United’s Michael Owen? No thanks”, “I’d rather have El Hadji Diouf” and “WTF a snake becomes our international ambassador”.
Yes the bitter rivalry between Liverpool and United is like few others in it’s intensity, but the reaction does seem a bit harsh considering Owen only went to Old Trafford at the very end of his career where he was only really ever a bit-part player.
Michael Owen’s record
Liverpool (1996–04)
League Appearances: 216
League goals: 118
FA Cup: 2000–01
League Cup: 2000–01, 2002–03
FA Community Shield: 2001
UEFA Cup: 2000–01
UEFA Super Cup: 2001
Manchester United (2009–12)
League Appearances: 31
League goals: 5
Premier League: 2010–11
League Cup: 2009–10
FA Community Shield: 2010
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