Shearer Denies Robson Rift

By Matthew Jones
August 9 2004

Newcastle United skipper Alan Shearer has slammed weekend reports which stated that he was revolting against manager Sir Bobby Robson. Shearer has denied the "dressing room bust-up" claims and says that the "club is in good shape".

Shearer said:

"These reports are absolute rubbish - there has been no fighting, no bust ups and the club is in good shape.

"It's only right and proper that as captain I come out and say these things after what has been written and said.

"I can tell the Newcastle fans that every single Newcastle United player is pulling in the same direction and we are completely focused.

"We all want success and silverware for Newcastle United this season. Not for Alan Shearer, not for the manager, and not for the chairman - but for the Newcastle United fans and the football club as a whole.''

He added:

"Yes I want to play in every game. But so too does every other Newcastle United player and this has not got to be interpreted in any other way but a burning desire to play for a great football club.

"There are reports that Kieron Dyer had a bust up with the manager at Celtic on Wednesday but again these are absolute rubbish.

"I never have nor will I ever reveal what goes on in our dressing room. But we do have discussions after every game because we are professionals and this is what professionals do.''