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Alan Shearer is ready to talk with Blackburn Rovers about a sensational return as manager - as he battles old skipper Tim Sherwood for the post.

Match of the Day pundit Shearer is keen to be a boss after a brief spell with his beloved Newcastle United and he is keen to go back to Rovers at the second time of asking.

Shearer is willing to take on the challenge at the club he shot to glory in his playing days - despite turning down an approach before they appointed Paul Ince three years ago.

The BBC expert also came close to accepting the Cardiff City job 15 months ago but pulled out at the last minute.

(Image: Shaun Botterill)

However pals of the England and Rovers legend say he is now ready to make a real go of management, with a backroom team lined up to come with him if he gets the nod.

Shearer is willing to meet with global advisor Shebby Singh this week, with a move for front runner Sherwood proving a hard deal to complete.

Sherwood is under contract at Tottenham where he is assistant coach and sources close to him reveal he is yet to be sold on the Blackburn move despite a lucrative contract on offer.

Former Blackburn title-winning captain Sherwood would also come with a compensation demand from Spurs - a problem that Shearer would not face.

(Image: Getty)

Shearer would have to sort out his Match of the Day contract, but that is unlikely to be too expensive and his potential staff are all available.

Iain Dowie, his number two at Newcastle, and former strike partner Mike Newell would be part of Team Shearer if he gets the nod.

Shearer certainly fits the bill that Venkys are looking for, a ‘name’ who would attract the missing fans and bring them the publicity they seek.