Owen scored an impressive goal just after replacing Rooney in the 3-0 win over West Ham on Tuesday.
Rooney told Sky Sports: “It was a great run and great finish and I’m pleased for him because he hasn’t played a lot of football, especially over the last few months, but he showed what he can do.
“He’ll be a big player for us between now and the end of the season. We know what he gives to the team and he’s a great player for us.”