Michael Owen enjoys fun with his family

Gemma Rose was helping keep her daddy in shape as she leapt and frolicked excitedly with him in the surf
Photo: Rex

Romping in the Portuguese surf with his wife Louise and daughter Gemma Rose, Michael Owen didn't seem to have a care in the world. Their break at the Algarve's exclusive Vale do Lobo golf and beach resort marks some welcome calm before the World Cup action for the England striker.

The Newcastle United player and his national team mates are taking four days of time out with their families before embarking on rigorous training prior to next month's matches in Germany. And Michael, 26, whose participation in the championship has been put in question after he broke a bone in his foot, seemed to be thoroughly enjoying the beachside action with Gemma Rose.

The lively two-year-old was clearly helping keep her famous father on form as she jumped and splashed enthusiastically in the waves with him.

The happy toddler will soon have another playmate to share holiday fun with - the couple welcomed a son, James Michael, earlier in the year.

Approximately three times the size of Monaco, Vale do Lobo is one of Europe's foremost luxury resorts, with exclusive properties and top-of-the-range facilities. Abutting two national parks of outstanding natural beauty, it also runs alongside five kilometres of stunning coastline, encompassing sandy beaches and spectacular red sandstone cliffs.

The area receives an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine a year, and another key draw are its two beautiful golf courses, offering undulating fairways lined with umbrella pines, and almond, fig and olive trees.