Alan Shearer compares Newcastle fans to Celtic Supporters

A Long-Awaited Triumph

Eddie Howe ’s side secured their first major trophy in 70 years by defeating Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley. Goals from Dan Burn and Alexander Isak ensured Newcastle’s place in history, ending decades of frustration for their loyal supporters.

The celebrations continued over the weekend with an open-top bus parade, as thousands of jubilant fans lined the streets of Teesside to pay tribute to their victorious team. The scenes of euphoria prompted Shearer to reflect on the significance of the win for the Newcastle faithful.

Shearer Acknowledges Celtic’s Passionate Support

Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer highlighted the deep connection between Newcastle supporters and their club, likening it to the passionate following of Celtic and other footballing powerhouses.

“We [Newcastle] just love our football, and we’ve been starved of success for so many years,” Shearer said. “I think it was just a relief that we eventually got over the line. And yeah, we love our football.

“It’s a life. It is really, honestly. I don’t think I’ve been anywhere in the country where you have nanas and grandas, mums and dads, young kids—everyone wears the black and white shirt like the Newcastle people do.

“And I think maybe in Liverpool or maybe in Glasgow for Rangers and Celtic, I don’t know, but it is very, very different and unique in Newcastle.”

The Celtic Connection

Newcastle’s passionate following has long been compared to that of Celtic, whose supporters are renowned for their unwavering dedication and fervor. The connection between the two clubs was further highlighted in 2021 when Eddie Howe was strongly linked with the managerial vacancy at Parkhead before the Glasgow club ultimately appointed Ange Postecoglou.

For Newcastle fans, this long-overdue triumph has reaffirmed their reputation as one of the most dedicated footballing communities in the country—one that Shearer, their all-time leading goalscorer, knows better than anyone.