Michael Owen released by Manchester United

MANCHESTER, England (AP) Manchester United has released forward Michael Owen, who will try to sign with another Premier league club or return overseas after three injury-blighted seasons.

''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 Sky Sports.

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 scored 17 goals in 52 appearances for United.

''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.''