Shearer slams Robson for omission

Newcastle striker Alan Shearer has criticised manager Sir Bobby Robson for leaving him out of the UEFA Cup third round first leg tie against Norwegian side Valerenga.

Shearer was left on the bench for the match, which ended in a 1-1 draw in Oslo.

“I was told on Thursday afternoon and I’m very disappointed, angry and, yes, surprised,” said Shearer A

“I’ve only played once in the last 10 days, so I don’t feel any different.”

Shearer was among several first choice players rested by Robson, including Kieron Dyer and Laurent Robert.

However Robson defended his decision.

“It was never my intention to play Alan,” said Robson.

“If it was a one-off game, Alan would have played. But we should see the benefit of it on Sunday.”