CBE SHEARER SPEAKS OUT
FORMER England and Newcastle striker Alan Shearer commended the bravery of footballers who have spoken out about historical sex abuse as he was honoured for his charity work.
The Premier League’s all-time top scorer, who is an ambassador for the NSPCC, said he was “saddened” to hear of further allegations as the scandal continues to engulf the sport.
Shearer, who scored 30 goals in 63 appearances for the Three Lions, spoke as he was made a CBE by the Duke of Cambridge during a ceremony at Buckingham Palace.
Asked about the current mood in football, the 46-year-old said: “We feel very sorry for what’s happened to the guys and commend their bravery for coming forward, which hopefully will help others.
“It hasn’t been a great period for football.”
Shearer was granted the award in the Queen’s Birthday Honours in June for his charitable services to the community in his native North East.
He was joined at the Palace by recipients including Dublin-born artist Sir Michael Craig-Martin, who received a knighthood for services to art, and Times columnist Melanie Reid, who was made an MBE for services to journalism and people with disabilities.
Shearer described the ceremony as “fabulous” and “nerve-wracking”, despite having received an OBE in 2001.
He said: “I’ve done it before but it doesn’t get any easier.”
The former footballer, who captained England 34 times, threw his support behind new boss Gareth Southgate, adding: “I really want him to do well. He is hard-working, honest and dedicated.”