Sheffield Utd chief Birch denies Shearer rumours

Sheffield United chief executive Trevor Birch has rubbished claims Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer is being lined up to replace Kevin Blackwell as manager.

Shearer, 39, is in the hunt for another manager's job after his stint in the Toon hot-seat last season.

But Birch, 51, made it clear that Blackwell is staying put and will NOT be replaced by the St.James' Park legend.

The former Chelsea, Leeds, Everton and Derby chief executive, who worked with Blackwell during his stint as Elland Road boss, declared: “I rate Kevin as a manager very highly.

"We have worked together before, and I know him to be an extremely hard worker and well organised.

"I think he was extremely unlucky at Leeds, and also here with injuries this season.

"He has not got the tools he needs in terms of player fitness, but I am sure he will sort things out."