Alan Shearer turns fan poll around in 24 hours

Apr 3 2009 Chris Robinson, Sam Wood & Rob Pattinson, The Journal

'There'll be a few pulling their fingers out now'

NEWS this good just needs to be shared, and Journal readers have been doing it on-line.

The return of Alan Shearer to St James’s Park has seen a surge on Journallive over the last three days, as Newcastle United fans tried to keep pace with developments.

But was well as news updates, supporters’ outpouring of joy and reserved relief, in equal part, has seen them flock to our forums for their own say.

Almost 600 have given us their take on how Shearer’s arrival will affect Newcastle’s future, and the swing in opinion has been dramatic.

Just yesterday two thirds were convinced Newcastle were destined for relegation and were without hope of returning to the Premier League.

With Shearer in charge the same numbers now think the club will survive, and even if they do drop the fans are ready to stick behind the team and renew their season tickets ready to see the team bounce straight back up.

Fred Watson said: "Shearer’s presence must give everybody concerned a huge boost. Anyone not pulling their weight will be sussed out. I think Michael Owen will be most to benefit.

"I would renew my season ticket if Shearer stays as boss. Like I said in the last survey, I would not desert my family in times of trouble."

Barry Hurst said: "There will be a few players pulling their fingers out and producing better performances now that Alan’s in charge.

"I had taken steps not to renew my season ticket because of the pathetic performances, although reluctantly, but the sky's the limit now.

"I am convinced Shearer will keep them up, so there is no need to consider whether the team will bounce back up."

James Turner remains unconvinced. He said: "I still think they will be relegated. There are too few games left, especially with Chelsea, Liverpool and Aston Villa to face.

"He will be the second messiah if we stay up and it will be agreed that he is not to blame if we go down.

Feeling more positive following the appointment, John McVey said: "Shearer news is great. The whole team will have to respond, get their finger out and believe in themselves.

"Don’t write the Chelsea game off, it’s 11 men against 11. Yes they can stay up, why not?"

Ian Williamson said: "I think it’s a good move. Shearer is someone who can motive them and make them better."

Kev Bramley said: "Provided there is a positive response on Saturday by the team and fans and this is carried on to the Stoke game, I think we will get out of the current rut and get enough points to be safe.

"I gave my ticket up for this season but would reconsider this with shearer at the helm provided Ashley backed him financially.

"If shearer stayed, and that would be a big ‘if’, then I think we could bounce straight back up provided money from player sales would be reinvested back into the team."