Shearer boost for England's summer

Alan Shearer yesterday said that he hoped to be fit for Sunderland's visit to St James' Park on Saturday and confirmed his availability for England's summer tournament in France.

Several club managers have already spoken out against the tournament and hinted that they would not release their players, but Shearer said: "I can't see any problems with Kenny Dalglish. I can't see why anybody should pull out if they are fit."

Shearer also intends to accept an invitation to play in a match to mark the handover of Hong Kong to China in July. "It would be nice to have a longer break," he said. "But you can't moan because the more you play it means the more successful you are."

Shearer completed a full day's training yesterday for the first time since a groin operation in late February, his third in 10 months, and he will train with the first team today. "I'm doing everything the physio asks of me, he's happy and the specialist is happy," he said.

"I am aware of the danger of coming back too early, but I can only do what my body tells me and if it says I'm fit, I see no point in not playing."

After training yesterday, Shearer flew to London to launch his latest personal endorsement. Braun, the shaver company, joined Umbro, Lucozade and Jaguar as his blue-chip sponsors; the combined value of these to Shearer is thought to be worth more than pounds 5m. Two further sponsors are being sought - only respected major companies need apply.

Braun's deal is part of their pounds 10m sponsorship of the 1998 World Cup. As such, it represents an act of faith in the England team. "My job is on the line if England don't qualify," the company's UK brand manager said yesterday. At last Glenn Hoddle need no longer feel alone.