When it comes to Newcastle United legends, Alan Shearer’s name is often the first that comes to mind. The club’s all-time leading goalscorer, with 206 goals in 405 appearances, is a Geordie icon. However, in a recent episode of The Rest is Football podcast, Shearer revealed who he believes is the greatest player in Newcastle’s history – and it’s not himself.
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"“I wouldn’t ever say myself, so Peter Beardsley, I think. He was unbelievable, a great player. I didn’t see Jackie Milburn, but certainly in my era, Peter Beardsley.”"Alan Shearer
Peter Beardsley: Newcastle’s Greatest Ever Player
With 119 goals in 326 games over two spells with Newcastle, Peter Beardsley is the sixth-highest scorer in Newcastle's history (via ChronicleLive). He was a fan favourite because of his technical excellence and inventiveness; he also helped the team advance from Division Two to the top flight in the 1980s. Along with Gary Lineker, Beardsley starred for England at two World Cups and excelled at Liverpool, winning league crowns and FA Cups.
Shearer and Beardsley played together 37 times for Newcastle and briefly for England. Beardsley usually ran in midfield under Kevin Keegan, allowing Shearer and Les Ferdinand to create a strong strike team. Shearer clearly respects Beardsley's abilities even if they only spend little time together.
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Shearer and Beardsley stand out, but Newcastle boasts a legacy of legendary players. Jackie Milburn—with three FA Cups and 200 goals—remains a club legend.
Shearer’s acknowledgment of Beardsley as Newcastle’s greatest player adds another layer to the club’s storied history.