i have always thought owen is overated, the only time i believe he deserved his status is when he first shot to fame, but as u said this season mediocre (being really fair there), same for last season imo.
Owens style of play inherently needs a big tall mand for flick ons an lay offs, he was shoddy when partnered by baros, thats why he liked playing with emile.
But im a bit biased, after watching him play, and play poorly i have never really liked him too much.