Souness begs Shearer

Newcastle boss Graeme Souness wants Alan Shearer to cancel retirement plans for a second time.

The Scot is keen to force the 35-year-old striker into another U-turn as the Geordies legend nears a Toon-record 200 goals.

Souey said: “I certainly wouldn’t close the door on Alan carrying on. We’ll wait and see what happens in May.

“He still has a lot of goals left in him. The decision will have to come from him but anyone who’s seen him in the last few weeks will realise he still has an enormous part to play at this club.

“This year the game-plan was to look after him and try to keep him well rested.

“But we’re now heading into the New Year and we haven’t done that. He has been in the firing line every week and in the hardest position there is.

“He’s a football player who is enjoying his football and it’s like any job — if you’re enjoying it then why stop?”

Souey added: “I don’t see a player on the training ground who wants to pack it in. There’s nothing I’ve seen to suggest that is the case.

“The hernia problem had held him back. It was certainly having an effect.

“But he looks to have found an extra yard since the operation.

“That, coupled with how much he enjoys playing alongside Michael Owen, means he is looking better than ever.”

The Toon boss continued: “There isn’t another Alan Shearer out there. I’d have to find someone different.

“I don’t know anyone else who plays like that. There is not an obvious alternative out there.

“If you’re a supporter, a player or a football person you realise how special Alan is.