Grimsby: 'No intent' in Whittle challenge

Grimsby have defended Justin Whittle following claims he deliberately injured Newcastle captain Alan Shearer during the Carling Cup third round tie.

Shearer required three stitches in a lip wound following a first-half challenge from Whittle which left the former England striker furious.

He admitted he had to restrain himself for retaliating to Whittle’s challenge, which saw the Mariners defender catch Shearer in the face with his arm.

But a statement from the League Two side read: “Grimsby Town Football Club have reviewed last night’s clash between Justin Whittle and Alan Shearer.

“We feel that there was no deliberate intent on behalf of Justin to catch Alan with his arm.

“The referee on the evening was very close to the incident and no action was taken. We hope that this does not overshadow what was a pulsating cup-tie between Grimsby Town and Newcastle United.”