England and Newcastle legend Alan Shearer went down in history as one of the greatest goalscorers the world has ever seen.
In fact, his tally of 260 Premier League goals remains a record by some distance (Wayne Rooney sits behind him with 208). Shearer's career began on the south coast with Southampton, before a hugely successful spell with Blackburn Rovers that included the ultimate prize of a league title in 1992.
But it was at Newcastle, his boyhood club, where Shearer cemented his legacy. His loyalty to the club cannot be denied, but when it comes to shirts is the story the same? Between his club sides and his career with England, there's plenty to choose from, and we found out what the great man himself thought in an interview for Your First Football Shirt.
What was Alan Shearer's first shirt?
My first shirt was the Newcastle United 1982 shirt made by Umbro. <The shirt was thick black and white stripes with Umbro running down the sleeve with the huge blue star as the sponsor>. My favourite player was Kevin Keegan, so I wanted the same shirt as him.
Alan Shearer's favourite Newcastle United shirt?
The Newcastle United 1996 shirt home (made by adidas). It’s the first time I wore (a Newcastle United shirt) after watching and supporting, so the first time I put it on.
What is your favourite football moment?
Illustration: Matthew Shipley
Scoring my record-breaking goal in front of the Gallowgate. I can’t describe the feeling, it was just very, very special. Jackie Milburn was my dad’s hero, now I had his record. And at the Gallowgate End where I stood and supported Newcastle United as a kid.
It doesn't get any better than that.
To compare my dad and Shearer is like trying to predict whether Ali would be Tyson.
Jack Milburn, son of Jackie on Shearer breaking his record
Thanks to Alan Shearer for sharing his shirt and footballing memories. You can read more stories like this in Your First Football Shirt, which is available here.
Browse our collection of vintage Newcastle United shirts here.