The 37-year-old former England captain had emerged as one of the favourites among fans of his former club in recent days, but after speaking to chief executive John Williams, "politely declined" the offer of a place on the shortlist.

Asked about the situation Shearer said: "The situation was, and is, that I was very flattered to have got a call from chief the executive, John Williams, at Blackburn.

great decisions

"He asked me if I would like to be included on a shortlist for the manager's job, which I politely declined because of the commitments that I have.

"I was very flattered to have been asked and I thank him for that.

"He has made two great decisions in his last two decisions for the managers, and I am sure he will go on and make a third one, and I wish him good luck."