Michael Owen’s move to Manchester United will rejuvenate the striker’s international prospects, according to his former England colleague and new club team-mate Gary Neville.

Having struggled with fitness problems and a lack of form in recent seasons, Owen has only made one appearance for England under Fabio Capello, as a second half substitute during the friendly defeat by France in March 2008.

With his difficult four-year spell at Newcastle United now behind him, however, Neville expects that a move to Old Trafford will enable Owen to improve on his impressive international tally of 40 goals in 89 caps.

"Anyone who plays for United over a season has a great chance of getting into an international team, no matter whether it be England or any other country,” Neville said.

"It's a hard club to play for and if you're playing well and doing well then you have a great chance. I don't think Michael moved to United for England. He's moved to improve Manchester United. But the opportunity is there for him."

Owen can draw inspiration from Neville who had also been frozen out of the international scene under Capello, with his most recent appearance for England coming in a friendly defeat to Spain in February 2007.

However, the right back was recalled for the qualifiers against Kazakhstan and Andorra in June and Neville has renewed ambitions to play in a third World Cup finals next summer.

"I have an opportunity. There's still a long way to go for anyone who thinks they can be in the squad," Neville added. "I like playing for England and want to be there. It's frustrating not winning anything with England and not getting to finals but there's still a chance there for me."