Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer was all set to be named new Nottingham Forest manager, it has been revealed.

The People says Shearer was the choice of Forest advisor David Pleat to replace Steve McClaren, and the Match of the Day pundit was working on possible staff and signings if he got the nod.

But Pleat's departure means that the Newcastle United legend and short-term boss is off the shortlist for the post. He nearly took over at Cardiff in the summer but had a late change of heart.

Forest are now waiting on Nigel Clough to decide whether he is ready to quit Derby to boss the club his father Brian turned into European champions.