Joe Kinnear claims bemuse Alan Shearer

Aug 6 2009 by Luke Edwards, The Journal

JOE Kinnear’s attempt to return as Newcastle United manager has mystified Alan Shearer following another lamentable day at St James’s Park.

Shearer has been left completely in the dark by owner Mike Ashley and managing director Derek Llambias regarding the recent progress in takeover negotiations and was said to be “annoyed” last night by claims from Kinnear he has been offered a two-year contract.

Shearer is on holiday with his family in Portugal and, while he still has no intention of walking away from his bid to become the club’s permanent manager, he is angry at these latest developments, which suggest Ashley will not offer him the job even if he takes the club off the market in the coming weeks.

The former United captain has maintained a dignified silence throughout the protracted talks to find new owners, patiently waiting for a buyer to emerge in the belief he would be the overwhelming choice to take control of the team.

He has even contemplated accepting the job if Ashley came back to him with an offer, even though their relationship has inevitably been soured by the decision not to appoint him manager immediately after relegation back in May.

A source close to Shearer said of Kinnear’s comments: “Alan did not know anything about it and, although he has been told Joe is wrong and that he wasn’t offered the job, he is concerned.

“Too many lies have been told already regarding the takeover of the club and he is as frustrated as anyone.

“At the moment all Alan can do is continue to wait for updates and hope that the club is sold as soon as possible. His position has not changed.”