Alan Shearer has backed Newcastle United to secure a positive result against Barcelona in their Champions League clash at St. James' Park on Thursday night. The former Magpies striker believes Eddie Howe's side can earn a draw against the La Liga champions, who are without teenage star Lamine Yamal due to injury.
Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: 'It's a tough one to predict. I guess Barcelona, because of their history and everything else, may be slight favourites but it'll be a really interesting and tough game. I think Newcastle, at home, will make it as tough as possible, and I think they'll get something out of the game. I think it may be a draw.'
Shearer, who will miss the match as he travels to the US, highlighted Newcastle's confidence after their first win of the season and the electric atmosphere at St. James' Park. He also praised the new Champions League format, suggesting it suits Newcastle as they are tough to beat at home, and backed them to reach the knockout stages with 11 or 12 points.
On Yamal's absence, Shearer described the Barcelona winger as 'very, very special' but admitted it is good news for Newcastle. 'No one wants to see anyone injured but from a Newcastle point-of-view, it has to be good news,' he added.
