The 38-year-old, who scored 206 goals in 404 appearances for the Magpies during his 10 years at the club, has been linked with the managerial post at St James' Park in the past, but has always been reluctant to take the opportunity.

The main reason Shearer has turned down the job in the past was the club's management structure, which the former England striker has been critical of for some time.

Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has also added to the unstable environment at the club by putting Newcastle up for sale and then changing his mind again, indecision which has repelled Shearer in the past.

However, it is understood that Shearer has decided to take on the responsibility of steering Newcastle clear of relegation, as they prepare for their Premier League clash against Chelsea on Saturday.

(Soccer365.com)