Alan Shearer: 20 Years Since Breaking Newcastle United's Goal Record

On February 4, 2006, Alan Shearer etched his name in the annals of Newcastle United history by becoming the club's all-time leading goalscorer. In a match against Portsmouth at St James' Park, Shearer scored his 201st goal, surpassing the long-standing record of 200 set by Jackie Milburn, which had remained unbroken for 49 years. This pivotal moment came during Shearer's tenth and final season with Newcastle, culminating in a 2-0 victory for the Magpies.

Newcastle United: On this day - Shearer sets Magpies recordAlan Shearer: Newcastle record breaker - 20 years onNewcastle United: On this day - Shearer breaks Milburn's record

Following the match, Shearer expressed his elation, stating, "I'm a very happy man. I know what Jackie [Milburn] means and meant to the people. I can now sleep easy that the pressure has gone." In a retrospective interview with FourFourTwo magazine in 2015, he described the atmosphere on that day as "incredible," emphasizing the significance of the moment: "If I could have bottled that feeling, I would have." Shearer noted that the record had been a topic of discussion before every game leading up to that day, highlighting the weight of the achievement.

Newcastle United: On this day - Shearer breaks Milburn's recordAlan Shearer: Newcastle record breaker - 20 years onNewcastle United: On this day - Shearer sets Magpies record

As the 20th anniversary of this milestone approached, fans shared their thoughts on BBC Radio Newcastle, reflecting on Shearer's impact on the club and the city. One supporter remarked, "He was a great lad for Newcastle was Jackie Milburn but not as good as Alan. Alan was the guy." Another fan emphasized Shearer's strength and influence, stating, "In all the years I have come here, I would say Shearer, without any doubt, was the strongest player we ever had. He carried not only the team but seemed to carry the whole city on his shoulders."

Alan Shearer: Newcastle record breaker - 20 years onNewcastle United: On this day - Shearer sets Magpies recordNewcastle United: On this day - Shearer breaks Milburn's record

Fans also reminisced about Shearer's goal-scoring mentality, with one noting, "I remember him trying to bang one in from anywhere. Most players these days are trying to walk it into the net." The sentiment was echoed by others who expressed a longing for a player of Shearer's caliber, with one supporter recalling, "I was there when he set the record. I don't know anybody who is as good as Shearer now and I don't think there will be for a while."

Alan Shearer: Newcastle record breaker - 20 years on

Alan Shearer's record-breaking goal remains a defining moment in Newcastle United's history, celebrated by fans and players alike. As the club reflects on this significant anniversary, the legacy of Shearer continues to resonate, embodying the spirit and passion of Newcastle football.

Alan Shearer: Newcastle record breaker - 20 years on