Michael Owen and his former teammate have not spoken to each other for five years after bitter social media fallout

Michael Owen has revealed he hasn’t spoken to former teammate Alan Shearer since 2019 after a social media bust-up.

Back in 2019, the two former Newcastle United star strikers traded a war of words after Owen’s autobiography ‘Reboot’ was released.

Owen and Shearer worked together during Shearer's short spell in charge of Newcastle United in 2009.

In the book, Owen claimed Shearer blamed him for Newcastle’s relegation from the Premier League after he won just one of eight games after taking charge at St James' Park, with Owen subsequently joining Manchester United on a free transfer at the end of the season.

He wrote: “He was brought in at St. James' Park as the saviour, the local boy. It could have been a great story. But he failed. Newcastle United were relegated. Perhaps rather than examine his own shortcomings, it felt easier to blame Michael Owen.”

It didn't take long for Shearer to respond as he posted a clip of Owen saying: “So all I did for six, seven years... I hated it, I couldn't wait to retire,” the Match of the Day pundit also added: “Yes Michael, we thought that also, whilst on £120k a week…”

The former Liverpool striker then hit back with: “Not sure you are as loyal to Newcastle as you make out mate.

“I distinctly remember you being inches away from signing for Liverpool after Sir Bobby Robson put you on the bench. You tried everything to get out.”

Owen and Shearer- Getty

He added: “My new book has made plenty of headlines this morning but they need to be put into context. I've stayed quiet for years whilst receiving plenty of criticism but there are two sides to every story. Once you've read the book you'll make your own decision….”

In a 2023 interview with DAZN Bet, Owen finally opened up about his relationship with his old boss.

He said: “I haven't spoken to Alan Shearer since he criticised my book, no.

“Alan works at the BBC and I work on other channels, so we rarely cross paths. I would say hello and shake his hand, things like that, but no we haven't spoken since then.”