I'd give the Toon job to Shearer, says Harry

Harry Redknapp, the man who turned down Newcastle, last night urged owner Mike Ashley to go for Alan Shearer as boss. Ashley and chairman Chris Mort have let it be known that they do not intend to approach the club's former captain, who is still the fans' favourite for the job.

Portsmouth boss Redknapp, speaking after his side's 2-0 defeat at Sunderland, said: "I'd give it to Alan. He is perfect for it. It doesn't matter that he doesn't have the experience. He understands football.

"We're kidding ourselves that experience is needed. Roy Keane has no experience but he knows what he's doing. I listen to him, I watch him and there's only one place he's going and that is to the top. I don't see why Alan can't do it.

"When Sam went, I thought it would be Shearer. He would set the place alight. The fans would love it.

"He knows the place inside and out, which would compensate for any lack of experience. He fits the bill because of what he is for Newcastle, what the place means to him, what the fans think of him, what a player he was for them. They respect and idolise him."