Michael Owen confirms Manchester United departure He made just four appearances in the season just ended and has not played competitively since November due to a thigh injury. Owen wrote: "I have loved every minute of the 3 years I have spent at such a fantastic club. I would like to thank the players, staff and fans for their support and wish them well for the future. I now plan to have a short holiday during which I will contemplate my next move. The highlight of his time at United was his injury-time winner in a pulsating 4-3 derby win over Manchester City in September 2009, a goal which warmed sceptical fans to him given his Liverpool connections. He also struck in the 2010 Carling Cup final win over Aston Villa but was forced off injured later in that game and any hopes of an international recall in time for the World Cup were ended. Owen scored 40 goals in 89 appearances for England but has not played internationally for four years. His announcement will lead to speculation that he may now retire but, even while sidelined, he has never indicated that he is considering that option. Owen burst onto the scene as a precocious teenager with Liverpool in 1997 and went on to make a huge impact at the following year's World Cup. He left Anfield for Real Madrid in 2004 but spent only one season in Spain before returning to the Premier League. Liverpool were interested in re-signing him but balked at Real's valuation and he opted for Newcastle. His spell on Tyneside was also ravaged by injuries and his move to Old Trafford, when out of contract, came as a surprise but he accepted a role as a squad player under Sir Alex Ferguson. Statistically, Owen's contribution to United amounted to 17 goals in 52 appearances over his three seasons. United confirmed the news on their website in a statement which added: "Manchester United thanks Michael for his contribution and wishes him well for the future."