Source: SKY_Sports
Shearer the saviour
Newcastle United legend Bob Moncur has hailed Alan Shearer as the man to save the club from relegation.
Speaking to Sky Sports News, former captain Moncur - who is golf buddies with the club's record goalscorer - thinks that Shearer's "heart may have ruled his head" when deciding to return to St James' Park, but despite his lack of managerial experience can keep the club in the Premier League.
"It's absolutely fantastic," said Moncur, the last captain to lift silverware for the Magpies. "If anyone can keep us up, it's Alan. I heard it on Tuesday night on Sky Sports News and wondered whether it was an April Fool's Day joke!
"He may be unproven as a manager but you could say the same about Kevin Keegan. He had no experience either but done a great job for us. I accept Alan is in the same situation but he's been around at the top for many years, has captained Newcastle and also his country, and he knows the game.
"I've already text him to congratulate and thank him for coming back to Newcastle United. He's had to make a big personal decision and I'm delighted he's chosen to do so. His heart may have ruled his head here but so be it. I think he has everything it takes to be a good manager."
While Toon fans are rejoicing his appointment, Shearer must quickly get down to business as he attempts to steer his hometown club clear of the drop. Newcastle are currently two points clear of safety and Shearer faces a tough end of season run-in.
They play host to Chelsea Park this weekend, and the final month of the season sees them visit both Liverpool and Aston Villa. It's a big ask but Moncur feels that Shearer's return will dramatically lift spirits within the club, including England outcast Michael Owen.
"Quite clearly, we have to win our home games," admitted Moncur. If we can do that I'm sure we'll get a couple of results on the road.
"First and foremost the guy who can win you games is Owen. If he can get his confidence back, and there's no one better than Alan to put an arm around him and help him do that, things will look brighter."
