By Craig McWalter
February 28 2003

Liverpool Boss Gerard Houllier believe's Michael Owen is raring to go for Sunday's Worthington Cup final clash with Manchester United after his vital strike sent The Reds into the last eight of the Uefa Cup. England Ace Owen scored the 2nd goal in what was a rather dire game and made sure that Liverpool were set up for a battle of britain 2 showdown with Glasgow Celtic.

Micheal who also scored in Sundays 2-1 defeat to Birmingham, last nights strike meant that Owen had now equalled Liverpool legend Ian Rush's European record of 20 goals.

Houllier said: "For Michael to break Ian's record, we knew we had to win this tie and get into the next round. I have no doubt that he will set a new record very soon.


Houllier said on Owen "He was rested there because I knew we would need his freshness for this European game and Sunday's final against Manchester United," revealed Houllier.

"I feel that has worked and you will now know that he will play in Cardiff too."

The Liverpool manager added: "When Michael scored his goal, it freed the whole side. It was always going to be hard for Auxerre after that."