Owen has not featured for the national team since the 1-0 defeat against France in March in Capello's second match in charge.

The 28-year-old has been injured for part of Capello's reign so does not meet the Italian's strict fitness criteria for international duty.

However, with his omission from the squad for the friendly with Germany, Owen appears not to be part of Capello's plans.

Shearer, though, is adamant Owen - only the fourth player to score 40 goals for England - can regain his place in the national team.

He told the Daily Telegraph: "On the England front, it's a difficult one at the moment, though if it were up to me he would be in my squad, there's no doubt about that.

"But you can't say anything against the England manager because most of the results he has had have been fabulous.

"But I don't think Michael Owen's international career is over."