Anfield points are possible - Shearer

May 2 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

Shearer was as hurt by anyone when Liverpool went on the rampage against Newcastle earlier this season. That result exposed the gulf in class between the two squads, but United’s boss remained upbeat yesterday and expects his players to do the same.

He added: “I was at St James’s Park for the game over Christmas and it wasn’t pretty was it? Maybe it was a turning point in the season, or signaled a change in people’s mindset about where the season was about to go, I don’t know.

“For every bit Liverpool were brilliant that day Newcastle were equally poor. Everyone can see it -– they’re going for the league and we’re fighting off relegation.

“There’s been a huge change in the two teams’ fortunes over the past however many years. It wasn’t too long ago that Newcastle were challenging (for the title). There’s been a huge change downward for Newcastle and upward for Liverpool, they keep improving and getting stronger but we can still go there and get something from the game.”

And, while Shearer once again responded to speculation regarding key defender Sebastien Bassong’s future by insisting all contract talks were on hold until the summer, he did reveal he has been in regular contact with Mike Ashley since he became manager.

The United owner will lose a fortune if they are relegated and will have to bankroll the club in the Championship or sell at a huge loss, but Shearer said he was trying to stay positive like everyone else.

“I spoke to Mike again this week and he’s in fine mood,” he said. “He was disappointed we didn’t win on Monday but I think he was encouraged, certainly first half, by what he’d seen. He has to remain positive just as much as we do.”