Newcastle United fans have flocked to a post on the club’s official Twitter account after it revealed Alan Shearer is one of the first inductees into the Premier League’s Hall of Fame.
The retired England international is the division’s record goalscorer, having bagged an incredible 260 goals in 441 appearances, and alongside former Arsenal striker Thierry Henry, became the maiden recipients of what is the highest individual award handed out by the league.
Shearer won the 1994/95 top-flight title at Blackburn Rovers after forming a formidable partnership with Chris Sutton before leaving to join his boyhood club in 1996.
After spending 10 years at St. James’ Park, Shearer retired with three Golden Boots under his belt and remains the only player to have reached 100 Premier League goals for two different clubs after notching up 148 strikes for the Magpies.
“When you look at some of the unbelievable players to have graced the Premier League – week in, week out, year in, year out – I feel very honoured to join the Hall of Fame. I have to thank all of my teammates, as well as the managers and coaches that I’ve worked with,” said the 50-year-old after receiving the award.
“All I ever wanted to be was a professional footballer. It was my dream to do that, my dream to win trophies, and my dream to score at St James’ Park, to wear the number nine black-and-white shirt and it was fantastic. I enjoyed every minute of it.”
Shearer remains a club legend amongst the supporters of the north-east outfit, and the fanbase were clearly delighted to see their hero receive such an honour:
“Simply the best striker in Premier League history”
“Congratulations Legend”
“Absolutely deserved recognition for an incredible Premier League career. Congratulations @alanshearer”
“Legend! The Local Hero! The number 9! The Greatest Goalscorer! Captain! Leader! Well deserved”
“#goat premier leagues most prolific forward”
“Standard! The best to ever do it! SHEARER SHEARER SHEARER!!!”
“Brilliant news for Al, and very much deserved.”
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