Owen given another year at United

Michael Owen has signed a new one-year contract with Manchester United FC, a day after former England team-mate Paul Scholes announced his retirement.

The 31-year-old striker has been troubled by injury during his two seasons at Old Trafford – making a combined 30 Premier League appearances – and has found himself behind Javier Hernández, Wayne Rooney and Dimitar Berbatov in the pecking order. However, he has put pen to paper on a 12-month deal to replace terms that were due to expire next month.

Capped 89 times by England with 40 goals – fourth on his country's all-time list – Owen said: "I'm delighted to have agreed a one-year extension. To play alongside so many great players, under an exceptional manager, and in front of so many incredibly passionate supporters, is a real inspiration. I can't wait for next season."

Owen managed only three starts and 13 substitute appearances for the English title winners and UEFA Champions League finalists in 2010/11, scoring five goals. He came to Old Trafford in 2009 from Newcastle United FC, having made his name at Liverpool FC before spending the 2004/05 campaign at Real Madrid CF. This term, though, produced Owen's first league championship win.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson added: "Michael has proved to be a top footballer. It's unfortunate Michael didn't get more opportunities but the form of Chicharito [Javier Hernández] put everyone in the shade and his partnership with Rooney proved invaluable. I am delighted Michael is staying for a further year and we will look to give him more opportunities in the new season."