Ex-Liverpool assistant manager Phil Thompson believes talks that Alan Shearer held in 2004 with the Reds was a ploy to force Newcastle United into giving him a new two-year deal to stay at St James’ Park.
The Premier League’s all-time top goalscorer ended up finishing his playing career with his boyhood club Newcastle, spending 10 goal-laden years with the club. Shearer is loved on Tyneside for his contributions to the club; however, his time with the Magpies almost ended sooner than expected.
Reports at the time claimed it was Newcastle boss Bobby Robson who was seeking a move for Shearer due to a clause in his contract, meaning his wage had to be increased to remain the club's highest earner, which prevented Newcastle from signing more high-profile players.
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However, Thompson revealed that it was Shearer who had conversations with the then Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier about potentially making the switch to Anfield, which forced Newcastle to revive contract talks with their star striker.
“Alan Shearer, we nearly had him from Newcastle at the end of his contract, he was wanting to come to Liverpool because he wanted a two-year contract at Newcastle, and they weren't willing to play ball.
“I couldn't believe it when Gerard Houllier told me. I said, 'Alan Shearer, why would he leave Newcastle? Why would he leave Newcastle to come to Liverpool for two years with the legacy he has there?' I said, 'You've got to be careful.’
“Gerard said, 'I've had conversations with him, and he wants to come and play for Liverpool.' So, when we got in touch with Newcastle and said, 'If Alan Shearer moves on, we'd like the first option.' They said, 'No, no, no, we'll be speaking to Alan.' Lo and behold, Alan got his two-year contract!
“I said to Gerrard that I felt like we were being used and that's the way I still do feel today. He would have fitted in absolutely perfectly for what me and Gerard Houllier wanted. I didn't think Alan would come and I said to Gerard,' I told you so! We were being used to get his two years at Newcastle.'”
Phil Thompson was speaking to Paddy Power who caught up with the ex-Liverpool defender to discuss a variety of transfer window topics.
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