The 32-year-old had previously said that he was keen to play in the Champions League sparking speculation that he would move to either St James’ Park or Old Trafford, but Shepherd claims Southgate is not part of Sir Bobby’s plans.
"Our strategy is to get younger players in and it's a strategy that works," he told the Sunday Sun.
"No disrespect to Southgate. He's proved his worth with England and is a great player.
"But he's 32, and why would we want to break with our policy when we are seeing a side grow up together?"