The 26-year-old forward broke the fifth metatarsal in his right foot during Newcastle's 2-0 defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on December 31st.

"My recovery is going well," Owen was told Newcastle United's official website on Saturday.

Owen has been going through light training sessions while wearing a protective boot, which will now be discarded, as his recovery seems promising.

"I have been on the exercise bike and can walk around in my trainers. Hopefully I will be able to start gently on the treadmill soon."

"The surgeon seems happy that the pin is still in place and I want to be back for at least a month of the season," added Owen, who scored seven goals for Newcastle this season.

Newcastle United, who are currently 15th in the Premiership table, sacked their manager Graeme Souness after a 3-0 defeat to Manchester City last week.