Michael Owen admits he would prefer a warm welcome when he returns to Anfield next week, although as a Manchester United player, he accepts this is hugely unlikely.

Owen is hoping to feature for Sir Alex Ferguson’s side when they travel to Liverpool on Sunday, in a match which is sure to see the former Kop idol booed and jeered by the home supporters.

I'm human. I'd prefer people to sit down and recognise what you did for them and for the team in years gone past but I'm pretty realistic as well,” he told the Mail on Sunday magazine.

“Now that I'm playing for their arch rivals...I'm not holding my breath, put it that way."

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