Source: SKY_Sports
Toon - Shearer was only option
Newcastle managing director Derek Llambias has admitted the club had to make a change and bring in Alan Shearer.
Joe Kinnear had to undergo a triple heart bypass operation in February, leaving Chris Hughton and Colin Calderwood in temporary charge as he recovered his health.
It is understood recent tests carried out on Kinnear have shown all is going well, but that he will not be able to return to work for a further two months.
Newcastle had not been able to pull clear of trouble under Hughton and Calderwood and Llambias feels turning to Shearer was the only option.
The former striker has been appointed on a short-term deal until the end of the season and remains confident of pulling off a great escape despite the 2-0 defeat to Chelsea in his opening game at the helm.
Llambias is convinced he brought in the right man, telling the Evening Chronicle: "We had to weigh up the situation. We were in a position where we had to make a move and Alan was the best move.
"He was the only person we approached, we felt that was our only choice.
"He has made a difference. He's a straight talker, I like that about him. There is no nonsense.
"I'm really upbeat about it. He's got the respect, he's loved in this town and so he should be.
"Alan has got Iain Dowie with him and that's a good balance, but Alan is making the decisions.
"Iain is assisting on the football side of it and the energy within the training camp. I'm really encouraged by it all."
Shearer's arrival has lifted spirits around the club and Llambias is now hoping for a positive result at Stoke on Saturday.
He said: "It's been a tremendous boost for everybody in the town and around the stadium.
"The players are very upbeat and looking forward to the next game."
