Hargreaves open to Premier approach

Bayern Munich and England midfielder Owen Hargreaves has invited Premiership clubs to sign him before the transfer window closes

Hargreaves reported for England duty in Manchester on Monday and admitted he still longs for a move to this country.

The Bayern Munich midfielder believes a switch to the Premiership would boost his hopes of cementing a regular place in Steve McClaren's team.

And, after a series of outstanding performances in the World Cup finals, Hargreaves realises that demand for his services may never be higher.

Manchester United have been linked with a move and Tottenham are long-standing admirers of his energetic style.

Canada-born Hargreaves, 25, said: "I said in the past it would be a great opportunity to play here but so far it hasn't worked out.

"There's not much more to say on the topic except I would love to receive the opportunity.

"I'm 25 and I have a contract at Bayern for the next four years but anything's possible. We've seen that in the past.

"The deadline is not until the 31st of August.

"I can't say what will happen between now and then but with the way the World Cup went for me, more English teams have seen what I can offer.

"Before I don't think teams had really seen me play on a regular basis.

"I'm at a fantastic club in Bayern Munich. They've won many things in the past.

"I have already played 40 games in the Champions League and that's something not every club in England can offer."

Hargreaves is expected keep his place in the England team when they take on Greece in a friendly at Old Trafford on Wednesday.

With a new manager at the helm determined to take the team in a new direction, this could be the big chance for the Bayern star to make one of the central midfield places his own.

Hargreaves said: "To have the opportunity to be a regular for England would be something I've dreamt of.

"Every player in the squad has the opportunity to present himself to the new manager. Hopefully I'll get my chance.

"I've been patient in the past and it came. I was patient and I knew I'd get my opportunity but with the new manager coming in every player would like to impress."

Less than three months ago, Hargreaves was booed onto the Old Trafford pitch by England fans, when he came on as a substitute against Hungary.

He returns a hero after supporters voted him the team's best player in the World Cup.

Hargreaves said: "Deep down, I've always had faith in myself that in big games I could play my best so I was quietly confident.

"With an amount of negativity before the World Cup it was difficult at times and I was frustrated but I surrounded myself with the positives.

"Ask if you want a boo or a cheer and you would always have a cheer.

"But I tried not to focus on it. Obviously I was disappointed but I didn't let people know that.

"People would like to see the players in the England team who they see week in and week out.

"I appreciate that. I probably wouldn't agree but I can understand where they're coming from."