Shearer couldn't say no

Alan Shearer has revealed that he 'just couldn't say no' to Newcastle after they came in with an offer to allow him to take charge of the club for the remaining eight games of the Premiership season.

"I got a call over the weekend off Derek Llambias (managing director) and Mike Ashley (owner) and I went round for a chat," Shearer explained to local reporters.

"They kindly asked if I would take charge for the remaining eight games and I asked for a little time to think and spoke to a few people.

"It's a club I love and I, just like many thousands of people, desperately don't want the club to go down and I will do everything I can to try to prevent that.

"It's a tough situation Newcastle are in and I feel deeply for this club.

"I believe I can help it along with the players, there is a nucleus here that can get this club out of trouble.

"They are very good players lacking confidence and it's up to me and the staff to get the best out of them."