08/09 Review: Hargreaves

Owen Hargreaves training before the Champions League final in Rome


Hargreaves takes on Robbie Keane during September's defeat to Liverpool


Hargreaves against Chelsea, one of only two starts he made in 2008/09


Owen battles for the ball in the home goalless draw with Villarreal

Frustration is the only word to describe Owen Hargreaves’ injury-ravaged campaign.

It was maddening for the player himself, after a hugely promising and influential debut season, and infuriating for Sir Alex, denied the midfielder's enforcer qualities - never more evident than in the Champions League final.

Owen's limited involvement due to tendonitis and double knee surgery was a huge blow; his energy, strong tackling and inch-perfect passing were sorely missed, especially in matches against the big four, in which he often excels.

In the defeats to Liverpool (Owen came on as a sub at Anfield) and the Arsenal away loss, you wonder what difference a fully fit Hargreaves would have made. After all, he was brilliant at Anfield in December 2007, and scored that stunning free-kick against the Gunners at OT en route to the 2008 title.

Here’s hoping Dr Richard Steadman has worked his magic and the tendonitis will be history. One thing is sure: Hargreaves will put in the hard yards to be fit for 2009/10.