Newcastle United supporters may have a late Christmas present to enjoy if Michael Owen joins Damien Duff in making his return from injury against Wigan Athletic at the JJB Stadium this afternoon. The possibility that Owen will be named on the bench by Sam Allardyce would strike fear into defences the world over, yet alone struggling Wigan.

“Even though he is short of match practice, we will consider using Michael,” Allardyce said. “Michael is still ahead of time. We said six weeks when he first injured his thigh and he is back in the fold again.

“He has worked very, very hard again to get back in the squad and now it is about keeping him available for selection as much as possible and maintaining his core strength.”

Duff breezed through a 22-minute cameo against Derby County on Sunday after his participation in two behind-closed-doors friendly fixtures earlier this month. The Ireland international injured his foot against Portsmouth in April but is in line to start his first game under Allardyce this afternoon. “Duff is a quality Premier League player,” the manager said. “It’s like having a new player in the squad for me. He can provide that quality final ball we need.”

Gary Speed, the 38-year-old Bolton Wanderers midfield player, has joined Sheffield United on loan with a view to a permanent deal. Gary Megson, the Bolton manager, said: “Gary wants games and at his age it is important for him to play. While we don’t want to lose someone of his undoubted talent and ability, it is a good move for him and I am sure he’ll do well at Sheffield.”