Newcastle striker Alan Shearer has confirmed that he will put his retirement plans on hold and is to carry on playing next season.
The Magpies captain has insisted all season he would not change his mind but anager Graeme Souness' persistence has finally paid off with Shearer having a change of heart and agreeing to a one-year extension.
Shearer confirmed that Newcastle's current form was the main reason behind his decision. The Magpies have reached the semi-final of the FA Cup and quarter-final of the UEFA Cup.
The Newcastle skipper said: "I hope we can go on to bigger and better things. The last two or three months have been great. The spirit in the camp is fantastic and I want to be part of something which is happening here and I believe that will happen."
"I am doing it because I think my performances have carried on at a level which I and the manager and chairman are content with. I think I can do that for another year," he added.
"I was a tough decision for me but I believe it's the right one for everyone concerned and more importantly the football club."
Club chairman Freddie Shepherd welcomed Shearer's decision and added: "I think Alan's new contract will read player-coach."
