"If the FA don't offer us a fair settlement, we are prepared to go to court to get an injunction that could stop Michael playing for England against Estonia," chairman Freddy Shepherd told the Sunday Mirror.

"We would do that very reluctantly, but the FA's stance is unfortunately leaving us with no other option. We will be seeking a reimbursement of his medical costs, and if there is no offer from the FA we will have no choice but to involve our lawyers.

"We have not been paid a penny by the FA for Owen's recuperation bill.

"They have not paid the price of even an aspirin for Michael since he left their care. They cut him loose as soon as he was put on the plane home.

"They have refused point blank to pay us, despite it costing us well over £150,000 (€220,000) to aid his recuperation.

"They even told us to get the money off FIFA when it was clearly the FA's responsibility as he was in their care and control.

"After the World Cup, they didn't want to know him medically.

"The only thing that concerns them is when he could play for England again.

"We didn't even get a letter asking how he was or offering their regrets. Not a word. Is it any surprise that we are angry about how the FA have behaved?

"The FA are abusing a dominant position. They are taking our prize asset for nothing and then returning him as damaged goods.

"They then have the cheek to ask him to return as soon as possible to get them out of another mess.

"The FA are forcing to go to court. Our lawyers believe there is a very good chance we can win this case.

"The FA may treat others with contempt but they are not going to do it with Newcastle United."

An FA spokesman said: "It is inappropriate to comment on this matter at this time."