Owen has precautionary scan on groin injury

LONDON, Sep 19 (Reuters) Newcastle United and England striker Michael Owen has undergone a precautionary scan on his groin after being substituted early in the second half of his side's Premier League defeat at Derby County on Monday.

''We sent him for a scan as a precaution,'' Newcastle manager Sam Allardyce said on the club's Web site. ''But he's absolutely fine and will be fit to play on Sunday.'' Media reports said Owen may need a hernia operation.

Owen has been in sparkling form since returning to full fitness after missing virtually the whole of last season with a cruciate ligament injury.

After another injury setback before the start of the season, he has returned to score five goals in his last five starts for club and country.

Newcastle host West Ham United on Sunday.

REUTERS SSC HT1752