Source: Eurosport
Hodgson fears Shearer effect
Fulham boss Roy Hodgson intends to delay Newcastle's escape act but expects Alan Shearer's presence to ultimately inspire the Magpies to survival.
A 3-1 victory over Middlesbrough lifted Newcastle out of the Barclays Premier League relegation zone with two matches remaining.
The first of those is at St James' Park on Saturday where seventh-placed Fulham will be chasing the victory that will leave them to the brink of qualification for next season's Europa Cup.
"All of us expected Alan to take the reins one day so it wasn't surprising when they turned to him," said Hodgson. "Alan is the iconic figure that was necessary for Newcastle in the situation they found themselves.
"It gave the fans in particular a huge boost because the idol was returning to his stamping ground. It probably gave the players a lift as well. His appointment has given the club a clear chance of avoiding relegation but we're going to do everything we can to make them stumble.
"Perhaps Alan will still take them to safety. The victory against Boro was an incredible step as they're out of the bottom three. The Geordie faith in their idol Alan will be justified. It's our job to put a spanner in the works but it will be a difficult task because of Alan's presence."
