OWEN'S BROKEN DREAM

Son of ex-England star  finds new hope after a devastating blow

- TOM VICTOR

JAMES OWEN dreamed of following in his famous father’s footsteps, even though few could match his dad’s killer instinct in front of goal.

Although Michael’s career was well down the road by the time James was born in February 2006, he still went to the World Cup that summer, played two more years for England and was at Manchester United up until James was six, sparking a future desire in the youngster.

Owen Jr was one of the best players in his age-group teams while growing up, with hopes of fulfilling his dream of keeping the family business going by becoming a professional.

But that hope died on a diagnosis of Stargardt Disease, a condition that affects the eyes’ central detailed vision, and made a career in football an impossible dream.

However, now 17, James has developed a new outlook on the game after spending time around the England partially-sighted men’s football team.