The euphoria of Shearer's arrival and the "instant hit" factor of a new manager could help the Magpies claim a point against Guus Hiddink's Premier League title chasers.
Stoke (A) - 11 April
The first of Newcastle's relegation six-pointers. The action on the field will not be pretty and Shearer's motivational skills will be tested in what could be a bruising encounter for his men.
Tottenham (A) - 19 April
Away trips in the capital have always been tricky in the past for the Magpies, but their last two league fixtures at White Hart Lane have resulted in victories - including a 4-1 win last season.
Portsmouth (H) - 27 April
This could be another big relegation battle with Pompey having only recently steadied the ship since the departure of Harry Redknapp. Many will consider this a home banker for the Magpies.
Liverpool (A) - 2 May
Newcastle have a terrible record at Anfield. In fact they have a poor record against Liverpool full stop. If the Reds are still in the title race then it will be a very tough task for Shearer's men to pick up anything.
Middlesbrough (H) - 9 May
Forget the fact this is a Tyne-Tees derby, this is likely to be another scrap against a team fighting to stay among the elite. However, fans will be expecting three points from this fixture.
Fulham (H) - 16 May
Roy Hodgson's Fulham have shocked many tipsters this season who thought they would be among the teams at the bottom at this point of the campaign. This is good news for Shearer, whose men will find playing a team destined for mid-table more of a palatable proposition.
Aston Villa (A) - 24 May
If Newcastle still need at least a point for survival then a trip to Martin O'Neill's Villa for the final game of the season is not what the doctor ordered. Villa are likely to still be in the hunt for a Champions League place or at least a spot in Europe. There will be no concessions from Shearer's former BBC colleague.
E-mail this to a friend 
Printable version 
Bookmark with:
What are these?