Newcastle United's interim manager Alan Shearer dropped his former team mate and close friend Michael Owen from the side to face Liverpool in a crucial Premier League match for both teams today.

Owen, who has not scored for the last nine matches, was named among the substitutes to face his former club at Anfield.

Liverpool, still chasing the title, were without striker Fernando Torres, who has a hamstring injury, while Newcastle, fighting against relegation, had Joey Barton back in midfield after injury for the first time since January 28.

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