With talks over his future at the club well into the third day (Thursday), there's still to be any meaningful word
from either Alan Shearer or Newcastle United as to whether progress is being made - or a stalemate has 
been reached.

We doubt whether the Vatican tradition of sending up smoke to symbolise an appointment will be observed, 
but if no agreement is made with Al, then they may 
as well start burning season ticket renewal forms now.