Alan Shearer column

By Alan Shearer Newcastle striker and BBC Sport columnist

It's been quite an amazing couple of weeks at Newcastle United.

To have Michael Owen and Nolberto Solano arrive at St James' Park has been fantastic for us and given the whole club and fans a lift.

He's very down to earth, very level-headed and has a good family around him Alan Shearer on Michael Owen

I'd like to say that Michael's settled in well in the North East, but the truth is we didn't see him until after Wednesday's England game.

Some of the Newcastle players, including myself, have just come back from Malaga where we had a training camp and played a match.

Those who went to Spain are very excited about seeing Michael and Nobby.

When you get players of the calibre of those two, but particularly Michael, then that's going to give any squad a big boost.

We can't wait until Saturday's match against Fulham, I'm sure both Michael and Nobby will get a fantastic reception.

One thing I noticed is that Michael hasn't changed since I played with him during my latter days with England.

I don't think he'll ever change. He's very down to earth, very level-headed and has a good family around him.

There are reports circulating saying that he's moved in with me. They are completely untrue - he hasn't even been in the city!

It's also a big boost to have someone like Nobby back at the club.

He's a player that was well liked during his first period at Newcastle, and we all know about his very good ability.

I'll be keeping an eye out for the England boys in their final Ashes match

It's just a shame he's suspended for the first two games, but his return will be a big bonus for us.

Another thing about our Peruvian friend is that he has a tendency to play the trumpet - he doesn't play it very well, but he is certainly happy for people to hear him.

Nobby used to treat us to his music in the dressing room - it did produce some interesting reactions.

I do think that with the new additions and everyone fit, there are exciting times ahead for our club.

I don't like to compare this side to previous teams, but it all seems very promising.

Although I'll be focused on the Fulham match, I'll also be keeping an eye out for the England boys in their final Ashes match.

The series has been fantastic and I'm praying England get the win.

Steve Harmison is a big Newcastle fan and we've wished him well, as well as the rest of the team.