Stoke City frontman Michael Owen has said that he was "desperate" to be involved against former club Manchester United today.

The Potters took a surprise lead but went on to lose 4-2 at Old Trafford.

Owen started on the bench but got 15 minutes of football by replacing goalscorer Michael Kightly.

"That's as well as we have played in possession this season," tweeted Owen afterwards. "Looked really dangerous in the first half an hour especially.

"Never easy keeping United at bay. They had their big hitters out in force today. Top side.

"Big thank you to our medical team for helping to get me fit for today. Was desperate to be involved."

Defeat for Tony Pulis's side saw them drop a place in the Premier League to 13th.