Newcastle ‘united’, spurred by Carr signing

NEWCASTLE manager Bobby Robson yesterday underlined his commitment to the club’s cause by again strengthening a squad skipper Alan Shearer has insisted is united.

Despite being told by chairman Freddie Shepherd his contract will not be renewed at the end of the forthcoming Premiership season, Robson is determined not to let the news affect his responsibilities.

Robson is to complete his fourth signing of the closed season in the next 48 hours with a £2million deal to bring Republic of Ireland international Stephen Carr to St James’ Park.

The Magpies have agreed the fee with Tottenham for the right-back, with Carr due to imminently finalise personal terms and pass a medical ahead of Saturday’s curtain-raiser at north-east rivals Middlesbrough.

Carr will strengthen a squad currently hit by conjunctivitis, with Laurent Robert yesterday the latest player to miss training after seemingly sustaining the same symptoms which have already forced Lee Bowyer, Shay Given, Andy O’Brien and Tony Caig onto the sidelines.

The 27-year-old would also appear to be joining a Newcastle side at war as stories of a player revolt against Robson have arisen, only to be shot back down by an adamant Shearer.

The former England international striker has also hit the headlines over the last few days regarding an approach from Celtic, but Shearer says everyone is giving their all for Newcastle.

“These reports are absolutely rubbish. There has been no fighting, no bust-ups and the club is in good shape,” retorted Shearer.

“It’s right and proper that, as captain, I come out and say these things after what has been written and said. I can tell the fans every single Newcastle player is pulling in the same direction and we are completely focused.

“There are reports Kieron Dyer had a bust-up with the manager after Wednesday’s friendly against Celtic at Parkhead and again these are absolute rubbish.

“I never have, nor will I ever, reveal what goes on in the Newcastle United dressing room.

“But yes, we do have discussions after every game because we are professionals and that is what professionals do.”

Although Carr has yet to agree terms, Spurs have already resigned themselves to losing a player who has spent the last 11 years at White Hart Lane.

Sporting director Frank Arnesen told the Spurs website: “We’ve always rated Stephen as a player and at this stage we wouldn’t have chosen to let him go.”