A 3-1 victory over Middlesbrough lifted Newcastle out of the Barclays Premier League relegation zone with two matches remaining.

The first of those is at St James' Park tomorrow where seventh-placed Fulham will be chasing the victory that will leave them to the brink of qualification for next season's Europa Cup.

"All of us expected Alan to take the reins one day so it wasn't surprising when they turned to him," said Hodgson.

"Alan is the iconic figure that was necessary for Newcastle in the situation they found themselves.

"It gave the fans in particular a huge boost because the idol was returning to his stamping ground. It probably gave the players a lift as well.

"His appointment has given the club a clear chance of avoiding relegation but we're going to do everything we can to make them stumble.

"Perhaps Alan will still take them to safety. The victory against Boro was an incredible step as they're out of the bottom three.

"The Geordie faith in their idol Alan will be justified. It's our job to put a spanner in the works but it will be a difficult task because of Alan's presence."

Hodgson sympathises with the emotions Shearer is experiencing after guiding to Fulham to safety himself on a dramatic final day at Portsmouth last season.

"Being in that position is nerve-wracking. In training during the week it's not so bad because you're fully in control of the situation," he said.

"But on the Saturday when they take the pitch you're powerless. It's very frustrating, especially if you think the team has been well prepared for the match.

"It gets very nervy watching from the sidelines. You desperately hope you get away with any errors and profit from any good play.

"So much is at stake that Alan and (assistant) Iain Dowie will be very nervous."

Fulham's position has seen Hodgson showered with praise and the 61-year-old is a contender for the manager of the year award.

"It's nice to know that other people are being recognised for their efforts with their clubs even though they are unlikely to win the glittering prize," said Hodgson.

"I don't have any aspirations to win it - I just want to finish the season well and claim seventh to get that UEFA Cup spot.

"But that won't be easy because we have Newcastle at home and Everton away and need four points from those games."