Indeed, it could be that certain players are more interested in making sure they protect their income rather than any desire to help Newcastle get out of the Championship at the first opportunity.

When Leeds United were desperately trying to balance the books following their fall from the top flight, they were forced to continue to pay a percentage of some players’ wages even after they had

moved on to other clubs. This is a situation Shearer, as well as the club’s board, will be frantically trying to avoid.

Shearer has also lined up a number of players to bring in as he looks to rebuild after the car crash of relegation, although everything remains on hold and he fears some targets will lose patience and sign for other clubs while the uncertainty continues at Newcastle.

Meanwhile, José Enrique could be on his way back to Spain as he admitted he was flattered by reported interest in him from Atlético Madrid.

Enrique was one of the few players to emerge from last season with any credit and he initially indicated he wanted to remain at St James’s Park, where he earns an estimated £46,000-a-week. However, a firm offer from Atlético would apparently be enough to break that resolve.

He said: “They (Atlético) are one of the major teams in the Spanish league. Who would not want to play for a club like that? I think that any player would want to pull on their shirt.

“Atlético are a big club with a big budget and great fans. They also have a great squad and have finished in the Champions League positions for next season.

“I do still have three years left on my contract with Newcastle, but I am pleased and flattered to be linked with them. I have watched them quite a few times this season and always follow the Spanish league. They have had a good season with (Diego) Forlan, who I knew at Villarreal.”