Shearer remains ‘realistic’ over Newcastle top four chances but is adamant they ‘mean business’

While Alan Shearer isn’t getting carried away with Newcastle’s start to the season, he has been impressed with what he has seen.

Newcastle managed to beat Tottenham over the weekend and leap into the top four for the first time this season.

Eddie Howe’s side have only lost one of their opening 12 Premier League matches and they currently boast the best defensive record in the league.

Newcastle legend Shearer has liked what he has seen so far but remains realistic when it comes to their top four chances this season.

Shearer explained (via BBC Sport): “I really didn’t expect Newcastle to be in the top four after 12 games and, although I’d love to be proved wrong, I don’t think they will still be there come the end of the season.

“But, while I am being realistic about their chances of making the Champions League places, I am still enjoying seeing Eddie Howe’s side up there, playing so well, and getting big results like they did at Tottenham on Sunday.

“Their 2-1 win was another example of how Newcastle are starting to upset some of the big boys – and they don’t like it.”

Howe’s side have now taken points off Spurs, Man City and Man United during the course of this season. They were also unfortunate to not pick up anything from their trip to Liverpool as Fabio Carvalho’s 98th minute winner denied them a point.

Shearer added: “People know things are different now. They know Newcastle are coming, and they know they mean business.

“Other than the first 15 minutes against Spurs, I thought Newcastle were the better team and they deserved their win.

“Tottenham looked quite average and one-dimensional in comparison, while Newcastle had plenty of ideas when they came forward.

“It was always going to be tough for them once Spurs pulled a goal back so early in the second half, but this Newcastle team has got a bit of steel about them, and they never panicked at any stage.

“The big thing for me when I watch them is how fit they look when they press, and how well organised they are.

Next up for Newcastle is a game against Aston Villa at St. James’ Park. If they continue to average 1.75 points per game, they will finish the season with 66 points.

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