http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11678_2958756,00.html Sam Allardyce expects Michael Owen to be fit for Newcastle's pre-Christmas game against Derby. Owen tore a thigh muscle on international duty with England last month and it was feared he could be sidelined until the New Year. However, Allardyce has now been boosted by the news that his striker should return ahead of schedule. The Magpies manager accepts there is only a slim chance of Owen playing against Fulham this Saturday, but is confident he will be able to play some part in the clash with Derby a week later. "We're looking at more good news by getting some players back for Saturday's game with Fulham at Craven Cottage," Allardyce told the club's official website. "Michael Owen will probably not play in it but we're expecting him back with the rest of the first-team squad nearer the end of the week. "And if Saturday will probably come too early for him, he should certainly be back for the game with Derby County at St James' Park." Damien Duff will continue his recovery from a dislocated foot in a specially arranged match this week, while a number of other players are also on their way back to full fitness. "I've arranged a behind-closed-doors game this week, when we're hoping the likes of Damien Duff, Abdoulaye Faye, Claudio Cacapa and Shola Ameobi will all play," Allardyce confirmed in the Evening Chronicle. --

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