Shearer denies playing hardball over Newcastle job

Alan Shearer has denied making unreasonable demands in his discussions with Newcastle owner Mike Ashley about taking charge of the Championship club on a permanent basis.

Former Newcastle and England striker Shearer failed to keep the St James’ Park team in the Premier League during his brief reign at the end of last season.

But Ashley is keen to hand Shearer the job of hauling Newcastle back into the Premier League and has been negotiating a permanent contract.

However, recent reports made various claims concerning the talks, suggesting Shearer was seeking a big-money contract and a multi-million-pound transfer budget.

Ashley has also confirmed he is keen to sell the club as soon as possible, providing he can find a buyer willing to meet his asking price.

Shearer said in a statement on Monday: “I met Mike Ashley last week and we discussed at length the future of Newcastle United and my desire to be the manager moving forward.

“I made no demands but there were obvious conditions. We simply proposed an honest evaluation of what was needed to get the club back into the Premiership whilst building solid foundations for the future.

“I fully understand Mike Ashley’s decision to sell the club as he feels it’s now in the best interest of the club and the fans. I hope to know more by the end of the week.”