Shearer Speaks About Asia Challenge
By Matthew Jones
July 22 2003
Newcastle United skipper Alan Shearer believes that the Asia Cup will be a good warm-up to a title challenge. Newcastle United will be hopefully doing more than boosting their profile in Asia - hopefully they can show the world just what they are made of!
Newcastle United skipper Alan Shearer, who is now fully fit after recovering from an injury at the end of last season, is insistsing that this week's Asia Cup is "more than just a way of boosting the Magpies' profile in Asia".
Shearer is convinced that the tough and competitive games against Premiership rivals Chelsea and Birmingham will help prepare The Magpies' for a serious challenge on the league title.
"The Asia Cup gives us the opportunity to play against top quality opposition at a critical stage of pre-season," said Shearer.
"After the progress we have made during the last two seasons, we want to be in better shape than ever when the new campaign kicks off - and if we can come here and win the tournament, it will be great for our confidence.
"Yes, there is a side of this trip which is about promoting the name of Newcastle United abroad and as players we have a responsibility to do that to the best of our abilities.
"But more importantly, this is a chance to gain vital match practice against Premiership opposition.
"I have waited seven years to win a trophy with Newcastle and this season might just be our chance."
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