Ian Rush is backing Michael Owen to prove his critics wrong with Manchester United.
Owen is expected to complete a surprise switch to Old Trafford, just two days after he became a free agent when his contract at Newcastle expired.
There are concerns about Owen's fitness, with the outcome of a medical seemingly the only thing blocking the deal.
However, Rush has no doubts Owen can prove his class with the Premier League champions.
He told Sky Sports News: "People have knocked Michael Owen all his career but he comes back bigger and better.
"People said he was finished years ago but he's a fantastic player who comes back stronger and better.
"It (the talk) won't worry him, I know the way he is and he doesn't have to prove anything anyway.
"It's a chance for Michael to get back and score some goals. He'll get chances for Manchester United and will score goals."
Former Liverpool favourite Rush - who scored more than 220 goals for the club in two spells either side of an ill-fated stint in Italy with Juventus - believes Owen would make a good impression were he to return to Anfield.
However, the 47-year-old, who made 73 appearances for Wales added: "Personally, I'd like to have seen him at Liverpool but they haven't lost their best strikers. He (manager Rafael Benitez) will be happy with what he's got."
Lol Owen can succeed for sure if he doesnt get injury for the next few seasons.