ALAN Shearer, the Premier League’s all-time record goalscorer, says nobody could stand in the way of Cherries legend Eddie Howe if he were approached to become England boss.

Howe is the current bookmakers’ favourite to replace Gareth Southgate, who recently stood down after eight years in the role.

Cherries player-turned-manager Howe piloted the Dorset club’s remarkable rise up from League Two into the Premier League, keeping them in the top flight for five years.

He is now in charge of Newcastle United, where Shearer himself is a club legend.

Magpies chief executive Darren Eales says the club would fight to keep hold of Howe, but Shearer believes it should be up to Howe whether he chooses to walk away and take on the national team job.

Speaking his role as Betfair ambassador, Shearer said: “It's a great job for someone when you look at the talent that we have available.

“It's now up to a new manager to mould them and carry on the good work that Gareth has achieved, but then somehow, they have to find a way to get over the line and win that trophy that we haven't won since 1966.

“I would like the next manager to be an Englishman. We've been down the foreign route before and I know other great managers have been mentioned already but I do think it should be an Englishman in charge.

“I would imagine the outstanding candidate would be Eddie Howe.

“I think Eddie has a big decision to make because I'm certain the FA will ask him and then whatever happens after that, we don't know. 

“I'm fairly sure that a conversation will have been had or will be ongoing now within the FA where Eddie Howe's name will get a mention.

“Whether Eddie wants the job or not will be the key.

“The fact we're talking about Eddie and England again means he's done a really, really good job at Newcastle.

“He's been fantastic and it'd be a big blow if he leaves because the fans love him, he's done a remarkable job and he understands the club, but I get it and I understand it. 

“Whatever he chooses, if he is tempted by the England job, which I suspect he may be, I don't think many people could or would stand in his way - albeit Newcastle would lose a very talented manager.”

Howe initially guided Newcastle away from relegation danger after arriving during the 2021-22 season with the club struggling.

In his first full campaign in charge, Howe’s Magpies qualified for the Champions League for the first time in 20 years, recording a stunning 4-1 home win over Paris Saint-Germain during the group stage at St James’ Park.

Last season, they placed seventh in the Premier League.

Cherries welcome Newcastle to Vitality Stadium on the second weekend of the season.