Is Shearer Setting Up HIS Team?

Last updated : 06 September 2005 By Footy Mad - Editor

"My great friend Alan was involved in the transfer. He influenced matters and this would not have been possible without him. I'm emotional about my return. I didn't know Graeme Souness but I spoke to him about the transfer after Alan opened the communication lines.

"Alan put in the work for me to be able to come back. I'm very happy to be back at Newcastle."
Our sister Newcastle United website www.TalkOfTheTyne.net has pointed out that Shearer is doing more than most to bring the big names to St James' Park.
www.TalkOfTheTyne.net :

"Is this the start of the "house that Shearer built"? It is certainly starting to look that way. Since when has a player been so involved in bringing in new players?

The only time I have ever known it at Newcastle was the Kevin Keegan influence back in 1982. He arrived, having turned down many top flight clubs (Newcastle were then in the Second Division), and had a major hand in helping Arthur Cox build the side that won promotion in 1984.

"He worked hand-in-hand with Cox. Keegan was the man who could coax the names to St James' Park, far more than the then manager, and Shearer is certainly doing it now.

"How long will Souness last? I don't think it matters that much anymore, because we know full well who is going to follow him into the hot seat."