the next step, Alan Shearer?

As the ownership situation around Newcastle grows murkier by the moment and Sports Direct stock seems to have a gravitational pull to it with a 70% drop in the last fiscal year, Mike Ashley's bargaining position diminishes by the day. Coupled with an extremely challenging worldwide economy, the once targeted £300m price-tag is a relic of the past and along with a intertwined corporate balance sheet overall management that includes challenging debt obligations, available funds for the club are minimal to say the least. If not said simpler, Newcastle will need to make use of existing talent, the academy and coaching guile to be successful.

While I am and always will be a voracious supporter of the academy, motivational factors from the coaching side is extremely important for not only on-pitch performance but fan support. The listing ship situation from the Kevin Keegan departure has been stemmed and although I wouldn't be recommending him for a speaking tour, much credit is owning to Joe Kinnear. Yet the fact of the matter is that Newcastle is looking like the flirtation with relegation will be year long affair and as those go, one that needs to be culled.

One of the chief names that are bantered around for the managerial position, assuming Joe Kinnear's position is not a permanent one is Mr. Alan Shearer. Newcastle's perennial hero has often rumoured to be handed the mantle of responsibility but many have questioned whether the now BBC Footy pundit is suited for the managerial role.

In speaking with the BBC, Joe Kinnear said the thirty-eight year-old Alan Shearer is "more than welcome" at St James' adding:

"I have the utmost respect for Shearer. The door is always open and if he is listening to this interview he is more than welcome to learn his trade here. I would be delighted if he wanted to come here two days a week and see for himself what football is all about. From Alan's point of view he will be looking, more for the future than right now. Because right now is a difficult time to come in also in terms in injuries. Maybe he is biding his time."

Time isn't what the Magpies have right now and action is needed.