Even though he is available on a free transfer his time on Tyneside has been plagued by injury problems, including a broken metatarsal bone, knee ligament damage sustained at the 2006 World Cup, a double hernia operation and a thigh problem.

BBC: Hull 'serious' about bid for Owen

The Pittsburgh Penguins crushed the New York Islanders 5-0 in their playoff opener on Wednesday night, looking very much like a Stanley Cup contender even with captain Sidney Crosby relegated to well-dressed cheerleader due to a broken jaw that isn't quite healed.

NPR: Penguins Set Tone With 5-0 Romp Over Islanders

Harlequins wing David Strettle, who impressed in England's defeat to Ireland in the last Six Nations, returns after a broken bone in his foot ruled him out of the World Cup.

BBC: Vainikolo named in England squad

Wilkinson hobbled out of Toulon's Amlin Challenge Cup final defeat by Cardiff Blues with a suspected back spasm amid fears he may have broken a rib.

BBC: England's Jonny Wilkinson to be fit for Australia Test

Maze's 22nd World Cup podium pulled her level with Austrian legend Hermann Maier, having already broken her points record in a season.

CNN: Hirscher secures maiden World Cup slalom crown