‘I’m always nice’ – Alan Shearer forced into unlikely Sunderland praise by Gary Lineker
Alan Shearer has been forced to discuss Sunderland regularly after their promotion to the Premier League.
After the Black Cats’ opening day win over West Ham, Shearer was silent on Match of the Day on the subject of Sunderland, while Wayne Rooney provided insight.
However, the former Newcastle United forward was more than happy to share his thoughts on Sunderland’s loss to Burnley a week later.
Now, the pundit has given the Wearsiders unlikely praise during the international break.
Alan Shearer forced to give Sunderland credit by Gary Lineker
Rather surprisingly, Shearer named three Sunderland personnel in his Premier League Team of the Week from the opening weekend.
Regis Le Bris, Habib Diarra and Dan Ballard all made the cut despite his radio silence on Match of the Day.
The 55-year-old has enjoyed the luxury of avoiding talking about the Wearsiders after their eight-year absence from the top flight.
However, now the former England international has no choice and was once again forced to comment on them.
- The Black Cats have defeated West Ham and Brentford
- They have scored five goals at the Stadium of Light
- Only Liverpool, Chelsea, and Arsenal have scored more
While hosting The Rest Is Football on 3 August, Lineker discussed Sunderland’s transfer window before asking Shearer for comment.
Shearer said: “They’ve had a right go, Sunderland, haven’t they? The money they have spent.”
Then, he jokingly said, “I’m always nice about Sunderland. I told you it’s great to have them back in the Premier League, and they’ve had a great start. Well done, Sunderland.”
Alan Shearer may have to continue to praise Regis Le Bris’ team
Given how well the Black Cats have started the season, Shearer may have no choice but to praise them more.
Le Bris’ men have two wins from three in the Premier League and have shown that they feel at home in the top flight.
While it might feel like a nightmare for the former Newcastle man, that is not going to end anytime soon.
Indeed, it will be intriguing to see how involved he is with the North East derby, especially if the Wearsiders are triumphant.
Although he clearly does not enjoy talking about his close rivals, it is something he must get used to.
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