It has been revealed that former England captain Alan Shearer has turned down an offer from England’s new head coach Steve McClaren to be part of the England coaching staff.

The former Newcastle United and England striker, who retired from football at the end of last season aged 35, was approached by Steve McClaren prior to the World Cup Finals in Germany, but has declined the offer, deciding instead to continue working for the BBC as a television pundit.

Shearer has said that he verbally agreed a contract extension with the BBC before his invitation from McClaren, saying: “I was flattered when Steve telephoned me just before the World Cup and explained the role he visualised for me, working alongside himself and Terry Venables.

“I met him upon my return from Germany and was impressed with his plans and his vision for the future. However, I had already told the BBC that I would extend my contract with them and I did not want to break my word.”

After weeks of speculation, Shearer's statement is the closest indication so far that former England head coach Terry Venables is soon to be named as a part of Steve McClaren's backroom staff, with rumours abounding that the former Barcelona manager will be McClaren’s No.2.

Shearer said to the Football Association's official website www.thefa.com: “I am sure that Steve will do a great job for England - his choice of Terry [Venables] as his number two is a clever appointment and I am certain that they will prove to be an excellent management team.”

Shearer, who also turned down an offer to be a part of the Newcastle United coaching staff, added: “I also want some time away from the pressures of football - I am currently on my longest ever family holiday and enjoying every minute of it.

“I spoke at length today with Steve and explained my situation and said if I could ever assist in any way he only has to ask.”

The former Blackburn Rovers and Southampton star finished saying: “We have arranged to meet up for a game of golf when I get back.”

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