Former Newcastle United striker Michael Owen has again questioned the loyalty of Alan Shearer.
The pair have clashed on social media since the release of Owen's new book.
"What I struggle with is the fact that if some people had the same opportunity they would have done exactly the same," Owen told the Daily Mail, referencing the two moves – Liverpool to Real Madrid (£8million, 2004) and Real Madrid to Newcastle (£16million, 2005) – that defined him.
"Those will be forever be viewed as loyal; players who would run through a brick wall. And you know what? It is a load of rubbish. I could have written two books and been even more hard-hitting because I know how it was with some people.
"I mentioned one on Twitter the other day (Shearer coming close to joining Liverpool in the early 2000s) and could say a lot more things. I can accept being viewed as I am. I have lived with it and know no different now.
"What makes my blood boil is the adulation some are held in and you think: 'Oh my God! if only you knew...' When I see players kissing the badge, I reach for the sick bucket. Listen, I did it when I scored in the FA Youth Cup against Crystal Palace because I had seen my heroes do it.
"When I used my brain and was more informed I realised it was just for the fans. The club I first played for is the one for which I have a real affinity. Once you decide to move you have to accept it is out of your control – unless you go back – and won't be the same."
