Souness steps up striker search ahead of Depor tie

GRAEME SOUNESS will inject new urgency into his striker search this week after another injury blow exposed Newcastle’s attacking shortcomings.

Michael Chopra’s withdrawal with concussion in the second half of the Magpies’ Intertoto Cup cruise over Dubnica means Souness’ men could travel to Deportivo La Coruna next week with only one fit forward on their books.

Alan Shearer’s late brace sealed that much tougher European date with Newcastle edging closer towards mainstream continental competition via the backdoor.