Manchester United News: Michael Owen Proves He Still Has Some Gas in the Tank

Michael Owen hadn't started a game for Manchester United since Jan. 29 before scoring two goals against Leeds United in Tuesday's Carling Cup clash. The 31-year-old striker proved he still has some spunk left in his legs in case manager Sir Alex Ferguson needs another option during the league season.

Owen scored in the 15th and 32nd minutes, while fellow veteran Ryan Giggs added one right before halftime to give the Red Devils the 3-0 lead that they would hold for the final 45 minutes. It was an impressive performance all-around as United advanced to the fourth round.

Following the match, Ferguson praised Owen's ability to step in and make an immediate impact (via ESPNsoccernet).

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His ratio (of goals) to games is unbelievable, and his second goal was fantastic. With Berbatov, Hernandez, Rooney and one or two other strikers around the place he's not getting the games he deserves, it's unfortunate for him, but he's fantastic to have around.

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While Leeds was never expected to pose a threat to the defending Premier League champions, it takes a lot of skill and determination to step into a lineup after so little playing time and produce. That's a nice asset to have for Ferguson.

However, the 69-year-old manager spoke the truth about Owen's situation. With so many strikers battling for playing time, including Danny Welbeck, who returned from his hamstring injury against Leeds, there just isn't any playing time available.

The Red Devils will play a bunch of games in a myriad of different competitions over the next eight months, so Owen won't get completely lost in the shuffle. However, he just isn't likely to be featured in the high-pressure situations like he was during his prime.

As all fans know, football is funny game. A couple injuries and an out-of-form player and all of a sudden Owen is in the conversation again.

You have to respect the way Owen has handled the situation. While you have third-choice goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak complaining about a lack of playing time, Owen has just sat back and enjoyed the ride.

And, as Tuesday's excellent showing illustrated, Owen will be ready whenever he's called upon.