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.
