The former Liverpool hitman was snapped up by United after becoming out of contract at Newcastle United, where he spent two injury-marred seasons.

"If you look at Owen's goal-scoring record over the years, even the last two years at Newcastle in difficult times, he’s scored at one in two," The Scottish coach said.

"He (Owen) is easily capable of that level, one in two games, so if he plays 25 games for me next season, I think he’ll get 15 goals."

The departure of Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez means that Owen will be leading United's offence alongside Dimitar Berbatov, Wayne Rooney and young striker Federico Macheda next season.

"We’re bringing new players like Owen into the team and also there are young players like Macheda coming through," he added.

"We have to find out and understand the best possible combination."