London  - Alan Shearer was unveiled as Newcastle United manager until the end of the season on Thursday, saying England striker Michael Owen can help the team to avoid relegation from the English Premier League.

Shearer reiterated that he would be at the club for eight games only and admitted that he was taking on a tough job.

Newcastle are third from bottom in the league and play third- placed Chelsea on Saturday in Shearer's first game.

But the former England captain said Owen, who he played with before retiring in 2006, could be the inspiration.

"I spoke to Michael and a few of the players to try to remind them of the standards and the qualities they possess but most importantly what they think of themselves," Shearer said.

"It is well known Michael has had his fair share of injuries but his goalscoring record is fabulous and I think a club in this position needs goals.

"We have a great goalscorer to get us that. He is fit and trained very well for two hours so we hope he is fit for Saturday and if he is he will start." (dpa)