Shearer rant could help Moyes

There is nothing more likely to rile those with red and white blood running through their veins than a public dressing down by Alan Shearer.

Sunderland fans can take criticism of their team on the chin, but when it comes from their black and white nemesis, it hurts even when it’s right.

Shearer pulled no punches on Match of the Day after the Swansea defeat, blasting the players as ‘lazy’ and ‘disgraceful.’

It would have been easy for David Moyes to come out in his press conference yesterday and rubbish Shearer’s critique with the words “well he would say that, wouldn’t he?”

Instead, he actually agreed with the sentiments.

It’s the kind of comment that could stoke resentment, but David Moyes may well have pulled off a masterstroke in going public with his thoughts.

If he’s after a reaction from his players, this ought to do it.

Any Sunderland player worth his salt will want to ram those words back down Shearer’s throat.

Those who don’t have that drive to do their best for the Sunderland fans aren’t fit to wear the shirt.

Moyes said: “In case you had any doubts, you would have seen that there definitely needs to be big changes on the field.

“That’s something I think most supporters will have picked up on.

“I take responsibility, I am the manager, I put the team out, but there also comes a point where the players have to show it.”

Sunderland doesn’t want any player not willing to put a shift in for the fans.

Those who react against Arsenal and shove Shearer’s words down his throat are welcome to stay.

Those who don’t, can walk. It’s time to show fight.