The 29-year-old, whose contract with relegated Newcastle expired at the end of June, has signed a two-year deal at Old Trafford.

Owen's poor injury record over recent years which blighted his spell at St James' Park was thought to be a major factor in the unwillingness of most of England's top clubs to consider taking him on a free transfer.

With the likes of Hull and Stoke publicly declaring their interest in the former Liverpool and Real Madrid player, it seemed Owen he would have to accept a substantial drop in both wages and the standard of football he craved.

In fact, his advisors he had just begun negotiations with a number of interested parties before a surprise phone call from Ferguson changed everything.

"I had just begun to talk to other clubs when out of the blue Sir Alex phoned me on Wednesday afternoon, invited me to have breakfast with him next morning during which he told me that he wanted to sign me," said Owen.

"I agreed without a moment's thought. This is a fantastic opportunity for me and I intend to seize it with both hands.

"I am now looking forward to being a Manchester United player and I am fortunate that I already know so many of the players here.

"I missed pre-season last year, and am pleased that I will be starting at Carrington from day one.

"I want to thank Sir Alex for the faith he has shown in me, and I give him my assurance that I will repay him with my goals and performances."

He told MUTV: "It feels great. When I got the call from the manager to come round and meet him it was a shock, but I'm obviously really happy.

"I've had a poor spell up at Newcastle, but prior to that my career was very good, and I'm sure a top club like this can re-ignite my career."

Owen added that his fitness problems of recent seasons should not be a concern for United's fans.

"I'd like to think that everyone was quite surprised with my medical," he said.

"I passed my medical and I've obviously passed them before, and my fitness is high. A lot is made out of it but I certainly don't feel like I'm injury prone."