FIFA WORLD CUP GERMANY 2006: GOLDEN BOOT WINNER

Admittedly it is a little risky with the World Cup still a few days away, but now might be an opportune time to back Michael Owen to be the top scorer at a very attractive 19/1. Even one goal in the next couple of Internationals might be enough to see those odds come tumbling down.

The Newcastle striker has so far netted on 35 occasions for England, and is just 14 goals short of Bobby Charlton's all-time record. Of course Owen will be heading to Germany with very little match action in 2006 under his belt. That though shouldn't put us off.

Owen has suffered enough long term injuries over the years for us to now know he needs around a month to regain that sharpness so vital to his game. Having already played in the B international against Belarus, and with a couple of games against Hungary and Jamaica to look forward to, by the time June 10th comes round - Michael Owen should be in great shape.

While Wayne Rooney missing at least the group matches is devastating news for most fans, it could actually prove a blessing for the former Red. Having the opportunity to play alongside the lanky Peter Crouch could see as many chances if not more fall the way of Owen, who we know has thrived when partnered with a target man. Think back to his partnership with Heskey on Merseyside.

Owen has taken part in four major tournaments, and while there have been moments to savour (most notably as an 18 year old against Argentina), there hasn't been a major haul as of yet. The law of averages would suggest a player in the class of Owen can't keep going to a European championship or World Cup without at least one time returning home with five, six or maybe more goals to his name.

One of the greatest spectacles in sports kicks off June 9 when Germany hosts Costa Rica in the first game of the 2006 World Cup. Get behind USA soccer and bet on the World Cup at Sports Betting Index!

World Cup Betting Tips: BET on Ruud van Nistelrooy to be the World Cup top goal scorer.