Shearer: "We Had Luck ... But We Deserved It After Wigan"

The Magpies have endured a frustrating start to the season, with manager Graeme Souness purportedly fighting to save his job.

A 3-2 home success over North East rivals Sunderland on Sunday helped to ease the pressure on Souness and lift the gloom on Tyneside.

Newcastle captain Shearer admits that, after last week's controversial defeat at Wigan Athletic, it was vital to pick up three points against another promoted side.

Shearer also voiced his hope that The Magpies can now hit a consistent run of form to fulfil the ambitions of the club's supporters.

"It was a huge win," conceded Shearer. "It was massive, especially after last week's defeat at Wigan.

"We needed the three points. There is always pressure when 52,000 fans are demanding success and if you can't handle that, you shouldn't be here.

"It's three points but it's more than that because it was against Sunderland.

"We have the bragging rights, now we have to be consistent."

The win was achieved without the injured Michael Owen, but Shola Ameobi proved an able deputy, with Shearer praising his strike partner.

He added: "We have to get Michael Owen back and get our players fit. That's when people can judge us.

"We got a bit of luck when they hit the bar but we had none at Wigan.

"Shola was magnificent. They couldn't handle him in the first half."