Alan Shearer has refused to rule out managing Newcastle beyond the end of the season, but has insisted his focus is on leading the club to safety.

Newcastle turned to Shearer after it emerged that Joe Kinnear would be unlikely to return before the end of the season following heart bypass surgery.
 
With Newcastle two points adrift of safety, Shearer is channeling his thoughts into masterminding a survival bid rather than looking to next season.
 
“I am here for eight games and eight games only,” said Shearer. “I was asked to try and keep Newcastle in The Premier League and I have eight games to do that.
 
“We have to get away from this Alan Shearer thing; it is all about trying to keep Newcastle in The Premier League.
 
“I want this football club to stay up and the powers that be will decide what direction they want to go in.
 
”I will be judged on results, on the eight games, like every manager.”
 
Kinnear hinted earlier this week that his role may change when he returns to St James’ Park, but managing director Derek Llambias says the manager’s job is still his.
 
“Joe Kinnear is convalescing following heart bypass surgery and is making good progress," said Llambias.
 
”It is everyone’s wish at Newcastle that Joe makes a full and speedy recovery. For that reason both Joe and the club have decided it is sensible Joe does not return this season and concentrates on making a full recovery before returning in the summer as our manager.”