A NORTH-EAST football club is naming its new £3m pub and bistro after one of its greatest players.

Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer's name is sure to remain on the lips of many a supporter when the facility, to be called Shearer's, is opened at St James' Park.

The Magpies' skipper said he was delighted that his name would live on long after his Premiership playing career ends next May.

He said: "It's a great honour for me and when Freddy Shepherd asked me if it was okay, I could not agree quickly enough."

Mr Shepherd said: "We have the Milburn Stand and now we are going to have Shearer's Bar.

"This means that probably the best two players in our history will be recognised for years to come and this is only right and proper."