Liverpool two seasons behind United

London, september 19: Liverpool striker Michael Owen believes his club will be unable to challenge champions Manchester United for another two seasons. “I believe Manchester United are the best team in the League,” the 20-year-old told British newspapers on Tuesday.

“Our (Liverpool’s) aim is Champions League. If, by the end of the season, we have done that then we will have taken another step. “If we can keep making progressive steps then we may get there. Maybe give us a couple of years. At the moment, United are still ahead of the rest of us.”

Liverpool are fourth in the table with 10 points and have lost one of their five games this season. Manchester United top the table with 14 points.

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Owen, top scorer in the Premier League with six goals, said he was ready to replace retired Alan Shearer as England’s regular first choice striker.

“I believe I am good enough to play regularly for England … it’s down to me to force (England coach) Kevin Keegan’s hand.

“If you are on fire then that’s what it’s about. You have to be able to force him not to leave you out,” he said.