Premiership: Newcastle to appeal Shearer dismissal

Newcastle have confirmed they are to appeal against Alan Shearer's dismissal at Charlton.

Referee Andy D’Urso sent off the United skipper on Saturday after his attention was drawn to an incident by assistant Graham Beale. Shearer is alleged to have elbowed defender Jon Fortune as he challenged for a high ball.

Bobby Robson announced that the club intended to appeal and the confirmation came this morning.

The success of that appeal could have a major say on whether Newcastle can maintain their lofty place in the FA Barclaycard Premiership table.

If it fails, Shearer will miss three vital games, the visit of Blackburn to St James' Park on December 15 and trips to Arsenal and Leeds during the following week.

Fellow striker Craig Bellamy will be suspended for the Blackburn game after reaching five bookings for the season at Charlton.