Newcastle United boss Kevin Keegan will talk to Alan Shearer about taking on a role at the club which he believes is big enough to break into the Premier League's top four.

Speculation had suggested Shearer would be appointed as Keegan's number two at St James' Park, but the 56-year-old admitted he had not yet spoken to the former Blackburn and Magpies striker.

Keegan, who managed the club for five years until 1997 before going on to have spells with Fulham, England and Manchester City, has penned a three-and-a-half year contract with Newcastle.

He said: "I haven't spoken to Alan Shearer yet. I've been concentrating on meeting the players and the staff and going to the new training ground.

"I want to bring the very best people to this club. I will definitely talk to Alan Shearer and if he wants a role at this club then he can have one."