Former Newcastle striker and Premier League record goal-scorer took to social media to congratulate Cambridge United after they progressed through to the fourth round of the FA Cup with a succinctly-worded tweet that hit the nail dead spot on: “Well done Cambridge. Pathetic NUFC.”
New manager Eddie Howe who had replaced Steve Bruce had unfortunately recorded the worst performance of his tenure as the Magpies new gaffer as they slumped to a pathetic defeat against totally unfancied League One opposition.
Speaking post-match on BBC’s coverage of the Hull City vs Everton tie, Shearer added: “I hope the players that were out of the pitch at Newcastle went and apologised and thank the fans for their support because there was 52,000 there today
“Cambridge deserved it, they were superb and congratulations to them.
“But I hope they went and thanked them (the fans) because they deserved more than the rubbish that was served up today.”
A well-struck Joe Ironside goal in a frenetic patch of the second-half was enough to ensure Mark Bonner’s side succeeded valiantly to off one of the upsets of the round while Newcastle’s new-found Saudi-backed affluence were unable to save the day and stave off the humiliation for the Magpies as the final scoreline could have been far worse, had Jack Lankester’s strike on the 86th minute stood.
The dismal result has only painfully confirmed to the blushing new owners the mountain of work that needs to be done not only to achieve league success but even to ensure Premier League survival to avoid imminent relegation at this critical stage for the beleaguered Magpies.
Although the club had been quick off the starting blocks with the debut of latest arrival Kieran Trippier sizzling hot from La Liga honors, the dismal defeat only highlights the pressing need for further additions.
On a day which was an opportunity for many to show that they belong at the club in the long term – too many let themselves and the home supporters down with their hero and legendary striker aptly summing up the final verdict.