Forward planning

Today's press conference saw Alan Shearer confirmed as Newcastle's manager for the remainder of the season.

Shearer was quick to stress that he's on sabbatical from the 'Match Of The Day' sofa, and is only focused on keeping Newcastle in the Premiership.

Joining Shearer will be Iain Dowie as his assistant manager and Paul Ferris, who returns to the club he served as both player and physio to effectively head up our medical department -apparently giving up the career as a barrister which he has pursued since leaving St James'.

One question: If Shearer really is only coming in for seven weeks, why would he appoint someone to run the medical side of the club?