Sir John Hall: "Alan Shearer is the most dedicated professional I have ever met. He will probably be a tremendous manager but I do not think he would be prepared to come in yet.
"Kevin has maybe had his time in football and is now doing other things.
"I am pleased that Harry has dropped out. None of the fans I have spoken to were behind him. They did not feel he was any better than Sam.
"I have a high regard for Gerard Houllier and he could do a job at Newcastle. He did well at Lyon.
"I have a certain sympathy for Mike Ashley and Chris Mort.
"Ashley and his team are dedicated to the club. He has just come into the game and it takes time to get into the passion of the club.
"However I cannot understand the timing of Allardyce's departure. I would have let him stay until the end of the season.
"The players let Allardyce down. The displays has been abysmal - probably some of the worst I have seen in 20 years."