We could not have asked for more

Last updated : 20 August 2002 By Luke Thornhill
"We got three points, four excellent goals and we are top of the Premiership and really we could not have asked for more," stated Shearer after the 4-0 drubbing of West Ham United - with his familiar raised arm marking the third goal of the night.

"It was imperative we made a good start to our Premiership campaign because we have aspirations of staying with the top teams in the table.

"We are top of the table and obviously it would be nice to stay there - and if we don't it will not be for the lack of trying."