Shearer 'in limbo' over Newcastle future

Alan Shearer received an unnecessary reminder of his enduring popularity in Newcastle after breaking his silence on the uncertainty over his future last night.

Magpies boss Shearer admitted he is still "in limbo" with regards to the managerial situation at St James' Park despite making clear two months ago he wants the job full-time.

Shearer, 38, took over on a short-term basis in April and, despite being unable to spare the club relegation to the Championship, is keen to continue.

The fans are also united in their support for their hero, as evidenced by the rousing reception he received for every touch in a charity match in honour of Sir Bobby Robson at St James'.

Newcastle, however, continue to stall on a long-term appointment as owner Mike Ashley seeks a £100million buyer for the club.

"I know as much as you," said Shearer, who delighted a 33,000 crowd with the winning goal for an England XI in a 3-2 victory over a Germany side.

"I would dearly love it to be sorted out one way or the other then the club can move forward.

"I am the same as everyone else, I am in limbo. I don't know what is going on.

"Everyone is telling me there are people in to buy the club. If that is the case, then great.

"I'm a fan like everyone else and I don't like to see the situation the club is in."

Two other former Newcastle players to turn out in the exhibition match, Rob Lee and Steve Howey, also revealed their continuing dismay at the club's lack of apparent direction.

Lee admitted he was shocked by a 6-1 friendly loss to Leyton Orient over the weekend.

"Newcastle fans don't think it can get any worse but maybe it can," said Lee, a Magpies midfielder for 10 years.

"Hopefully it was a blip but until the club is sold I can't see this getting any better.

"I'm fed up of talking about it. I've been saying all along Alan should be manager but it doesn't look like it's going to be a quick sale, so it could be a tough season."

Howey, who played 191 games for Newcastle between 1989 and 2000, is alarmed by the speed with which the new season is approaching.

He said: "It's not good. We all want it resolved and resolved quickly - the sooner the better.

"Just speaking to the lads and getting the gist of it, it doesn't seem like there are going to be many leaving or many coming.

"Other teams are buying here and there or letting players go. It needs to be done quickly."