Shearer preaches safety first

Alan Shearer insists Newcastle will adopt a safety-first approach as they attempt to clinch a place in the UEFA Cup quarter-finals tonight.

Bobby Robson’s men will run out at the Son Moix Stadium holding a 4-1 first-leg lead over Primera Liga strugglers Real Mallorca knowing the importance of keeping a clean sheet, something they have not managed in their last 12 games.

“The worst scenario would be to go out and concede a goal in the first five minutes and make it very difficult for ourselves,” said captain Shearer.

“Obviously, we are in a great position and it would take a lot of mistakes from us to let it all slip away.

"We need to do a professional job.

“In their last home game, they beat Deportivo La Coruna 4-2, so we know they are capable of scoring a few on their day and their performance in the first half at St James’ Park should remind us they are a decent side, not that we should need any reminders.

“We will be absolutely devastated if we don’t go through, but confidence is high.”