Owen rested from training after back trouble

England expect star striker Michael Owen to be fit to face Greece in a 2002 World Cup qualifier next week but he did not train yesterday.

The Liverpool forward is also unlikely to train today at the resort of La Manga after reporting lower back pain to the England coaching staff.

Owen has been doing special exercises for the past two years to help ease back problems which were partly to blame for his long series of hamstring injuries in 1999 and alst year.

The 21 year old said he had problems after the Mexico friendly which England won 4-0 on Friday and has been told to rest. He may only do some exercises and stetches by himself but England want him in full training by Friday at least as they prepare for a trip to play Greece in Athens next Wednesday.