Michael Owen heading for the exit door at Manchester United

Michael Owen has finally got off the bench for Manchester United but sadly for the veteran striker, it's because the club have decided not to renew his contract.

The 32-year-old former England international confirmed the news to fans via his official Twitter account this morning. He had made just four starts in all competitions for the 2011/2012 season, hitting the net on three occasions in the Carling Cup.

Owen joined Manchester United as a free agent in 2009 following his departure from Newcastle United and though he leaves the Red Devils with a respectable record in 17 goals from 52 appearances, he never managed to make his mark on the club's first team, with just six league starts in three seasons.

"The manager informed me after our testimonial match on Tuesday that the club would not be offering me a new contract," tweeted Owen this morning.

"I have loved every minute of the 3 years I have spent at such a fantastic club. I now plan to have a short holiday during which I will contemplate my next move."

Owen's final game for Manchester United was Tuesday for a testimonial dedicated to United goalkeeper Harry Gregg. With the striker's notorious injury record and lack of game time in recent seasons, he may find his options limited this summer - even if his representatives get to work on a new glossy brochure.