Michael Owen searching for new club after leaving Man United

Striker Michael Owen is searching for a new English Premier League club or a return overseas after being released by Manchester United following three injury-blighted seasons.

Having been unable to re-ignite his career at Old Trafford, the former England international was not offered a new contract by United but he was still committed to playing.

"At 32, I definitely owe it to myself to have two or three years and play a bit more - but for somebody else," Owen told British broadcaster Sky Sports.

"I don't think the Championship would be an option if I am totally honest," he added. "I don't feel I have lost the ability to score goals or play at a high level. I have been playing and training with top players all my life and that was one of the attractions in going to Man United. We will wait to see where that is. If it is not the Premier League then I may look farther afield."

Owen is inspired to continue in the game by United duo Paul Scholes and Ryan Giggs, who are 37 and 38 respectively and still playing.

"I might look a bit older than that but looking at the likes of Scholesy and Giggsy, it doesn't half fill you with a lot of motivation and confidence," Owen said. "They are playing into their mid-to-late thirties and I still feel as if I am reasonably young. When I wake up my body feels good even though I have had a few injuries."

The former Liverpool, Real Madrid and Newcastle forward made just four appearances last season for United and has not played competitively since November due to a thigh injury. He leaves United after scoring 17 goals in 52 appearances.

"Michael is a consummate professional and was an influential figure in our dressing room," United manager Alex Ferguson said. "Unfortunately he had no luck with his injury this season. Michael's record of goals per game is exceptional and we wish him all the best for the future."