Newcastle United manager Graeme Souness returned to the BBC Radio Newcastle studios for to talk to Newcastle United commentator Mick Lowes and to take questions on phone, text and email from the fans.
 | | Graeme and Mick in our studios, Oct 2004 |
During the discussion, Graeme Souness answered many questions including queries about a replacement for Alan Shearer, who has previously stated his intention to retire at the end of this season. Shearer to play on? Souness said he would not accept that the Newcastle United skipper will hang up his boots just yet, and that he's "reasonably confident", Shearer will continue for another season. Referring to Shearer's remarkable record of league goals, he said it would be "an absolute crime if he didn't get Jackie Millburn's record". The Magpies manager also admitted he was a fan of the 4-4-2 formation and spoke frankly about the departure of Craig Bellamy. And he exclusively revealed that he tried to buy back the very popular Nolberto Solano in January, but was told that under no circumstances would the player be allowed to leave Villa Park. The last time Graeme came to our studios, he had just taken over as Magpie boss, and had seen his appointment begin with an unbeaten run. Since then we've seen players come and go from St James' Park and the team have enjoyed mixed fortunes on the pitch. But he joined Mick Lowes, on the heels of an away win against Heerenveen in the UEFA Cup and an FA Cup fifth round victory over Chelsea. If you missed the interview, when it was broadcast on Tuesday 22 February 2005, don't worry, you can listen to the programme again right here online. Links to the audio can be found at the top right of this page. | 
