Cheers As Shearer Hits The Back Of The Net!

Last updated : 07 April 2009 By Footy Mad - Editor

A crowd of 7,500, including thousands of schoolchildren on their Easter holidays, looked on as Shearer and assistant Iain Dowie supervised shooting practice, while long-term absentees Joey Barton and Mark Viduka worked together as they continued their recovery from injury.

There were cheers when the ball hit the back of the net.

But the biggest came when the manager claimed a double in a small-sided game and could not resist the temptation to briefly reprise his famous celebration after the first.

Skipper Michael Owen, without a goal since January 10, joined in the shooting exercises, although the real work had already taken place before the gates were opened at 11.30am.

There was no sign of defenders Steven Taylor and Sebastien Bassong, who are battling against ankle and groin injuries respectively ahead of Saturday's crucial Barclays Premier League trip to Stoke, although the Frenchman had been present for the start of the session.