Owen injured his knee playing for England in the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

And the 27-year-old is targetting a return from cruciate ligament damage before the end of the season, and could line out for England's game against Estonia in June.

"He will return when it suits him and Newcastle, not England," Shepherd told the Newcastle Chronicle.

"If he's not fit for Newcastle this season, he won't be fit for England."

McClaren's side have scored only once in five international matches and Saturday's draw in Israel left England five points behind Croatia, the pacesetters in their Euro 2008 qualifying group, and three adrift of Russia, who currently occupy the second qualifying spot.

Shepherd added: "I am an England fan and I want to watch them in the Euro 2008 finals.

"But let's stop this clamour for Michael returning to play for England before it gets up a head of steam.

"The player and Newcastle United come first and he will not be rushed back just so he can play for England in the summer."