Michael Owen is confident United can overturn a run of disappointing results at Stamford Bridge when the Reds face Chelsea in the UEFA Champions League quarter-final first-leg on Wednesday.
Despite enduring a run of 10 games without victory in West London, Owen insists Sir Alex Ferguson’s side are fully capable of beating Chelsea, citing impressive performances during the last two trips to the Bridge.
In an exclusive interview, Owen told ManUtd.com: “Since I’ve been at the club the games at Stamford Bridge have been odd. We don’t get outplayed there, that’s for sure. Unfortunately we haven’t had many good results, though. I’m sure our luck will change at some point.
“I can’t quite believe we lost the last two league games at Stamford Bridge – we played well on both occasions. In the league last month we were 1-0 up and put on one of the finest displays of football Stamford Bridge has probably seen from a visiting team. I don’t think many teams go to Chelsea and play like that.
“We were 1-0 up and then they got back into the game from nothing, really. Maybe we were a little guilty of contributing to our own downfall but we won’t let that happen again.”
Owen, who recently declared himself fit and ready to aid United’s trophy hunt this season, says facing English opposition in European competition won't alter how the Reds prepare for the game.
The marksman also believes home advantage could play its part during the second leg, when Chelsea visit Old Trafford.
“We prepare for every game in the exact same way – we don’t take any game more seriously or less seriously than any other. The way we train, the way we travel, the way we recover, it’s all the same. I don’t think it will feel much different.
“We hope playing the second leg at Old Trafford will prove decisive. We also know that whoever progresses to the semi-final will get the same advantage there, so that’s an added incentive. From that point of view, the draw’s been kind to us. But Chelsea won’t be easy. It’s going to be difficult to get past Chelsea over two legs.”
After signing for United as a free agent in 2009, Owen has scored 13 goals in 37 appearances, including an infamous winner in the Manchester derby last season. With his current deal set to run out in the summer, the striker is keen to extend his stay.
“I’m not sure about my future yet – my contract expires at the end of this season. I’ve made no secret that, in an ideal world, I’d extend my stay here. I’d love to play here for longer but I’ll just wait and see what the club say to me. We’ve not held any talks yet.”
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