Alan Shearer has stressed that the timing is just not right for him to link up with manager Kevin Keegan’s support staff at Newcastle United, as he explained what had transpired in the talks between the duo.

The former Toon legendary striker was a popular choice amongst the club fans to take over as the manager when Sam Allardyce was sacked. However, the Tyneside club looked for an experienced person and named Kevin Keegan for his second stint as the Magpies boss, early last month.

Keegan then disclosed that he is interested in holding chat with Shearer over a possible role for the former England ace at St James' Park.

Shearer told The Sun: "I have not snubbed anyone or anything like that. I chatted to Kevin for four hours at my house first time. Then we had another long meeting on Monday.

"Throughout the talks, all I was thinking about was what would be best for Newcastle - not what would be best for me.

"This club has given me too much for me to turn my back at a time when I might be able to help. But I don't think I would be a help right now - and I have explained that to Kevin.

"He basically told me I could come in as his assistant or in any role I wanted, but the timing is just not right."