Freddy ‘helps’ with a Threat

By Nick Raynor
December 5 2004

Newcastle Chairman Freddy Shepherd has really picked a good time to issue a trophy threat to manager, Graham Souness.

Shepherd does not believe Souness should be given time to construct his own team as he feels the right materials are already there.

Shepherd said:

Graeme's argument would be that this is not his team and judge him next year," he stated.

"What I'm saying is that we've got all the ingredients there now and it's got to happen."

Shepherd is also saying he believes Alan Shearer could become one of Newcastle United’s great managers:

"Alan's contract is up at the end of the season and he may decide to continue for another year and try to break Jackie Milburn's club record of 200 goals," he continued.

"Whatever he decides he'll always have a role here.

"He wouldn't necessarily need managerial experience elsewhere. He could come straight on to the coaching staff, though that's Graeme's decision ultimately.

"But one day he'll make a great manager. People say great players don't always make great managers but I'd put my money on this one."

Souness has also said he is not afraid to leave Alan Shearer out and may do so for away matches:

"It's not about what one individual wants - it's about what's best for this football club,"