The 29-year-old, who has not played since damaging his ankle last month, is still setting his sights on the Barclays Premier League trip to Hull on March 14.

Caretaker boss Chris Hughton confirmed that Owen had been in for a minor operation, but insisted it would not alter the time-frame for his return.

"Michael Owen has gone through a period of rehab on an ankle injury that he had," Hughton said after his side's 0-0 draw with Everton this afternoon.

"He also had a minor - very minor - groin repair which came in line with the period of time he is out with his ankle.

"It certainly hasn't hindered or increased the period of time he is going to be out.

"We are hoping he will be training within a week and available for the Hull game."

Owen remains the club's top scorer this season with 10 goals in 23 appearances despite another injury-interrupted campaign.