Shearer: Kiev clash can kick-start our season

ALAN SHEARER will lead the Magpies into their Champions League adventure in Kiev tonight insisting the bread and butter of the Premiership is far more important.

The 32-year-old, whose goals last season were a major factor in Newcastle United’s qualification, was robbed of the chance to play for his home-town club in the biggest competition in Europe last time around after shattering his ankle in a freak accident, and has had to wait five years for a second chance.

That has made him all the more eager to make the most of his opportunity to shine on the continental stage, but he is adamant securing Champions League football on a regular basis through the league is the priority.