On what was a comparatively uneventful transfer deadline day, Manchester United striker Michael Owen has signed for the Manchester United reserve team on a six month contract.

Owen, who struggled to break into the first team was snapped up by United's reserves at the 11th hour yesterday and is expected to make his debut against Hull City on Saturday.

Speaking at a press conference before a delegation of two reporters, Owen expressed excitement at his new challenge.

"I'm looking forward to playing for such a big club in front of 2,000 people", he said. "As a footballer, you're always looking to win things and this club is ambitious enough to win the Reserve League".

Owen went on to say that the lure of guaranteed first team action was another key factor in his decision to leave the Premier League Champions for the high-flying reserve team.

"You want to be playing week-in-week-out and at this level I should be able to manage that. I just hope my knees hold out".

Meanwhile, England coach Fabio Capello has remained quiet on whether he plans to take Owen to this year's World Cup in South Africa.