Having scored on his first start of the campaign against Barnsley in midweek, Owen followed that up by netting the only goal against Wigan Athletic.

His match-winning contribution came in front of England coach Steve McClaren, who will look to Owen to lead the line in the upcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers with Israel and Russia.

Though the forward was happy to complete the game, he does not feel it was necessary to prove his fitness.

"It's always pleasing to play 90 minutes and to score a goal to win the game, that's what you play football for," Owen told Sky Sports News.

"A lot has been made out of me playing 90 minutes and all this rubbish.

"Whether I scored today, or whether I never, it makes no difference.

"I've been able to play 90 minutes for a long time, but obviously it's glued into people's heads that I'm still injured, even though I did my cruciate 12 months ago."