‘We’re so sorry’: Apology sent to frustrated Newcastle legend Alan Shearer after Qatar World Cup travel mishap

Newcastle United legend Alan Shearer is facing a Christmas without his best pair of boxers after British Airways lost his suitcase on his return from the Qatar World Cup.

The player-turned-pundit caused quite a stir on social media on Wednesday when he publicly contacted the airline provider to plea for his luggage back - and football fans were quick to drop some brilliant responses in the comments.

Shearer wrote: "That’s two and a half days home now. Shame my bag didn’t make it. @British_Airways any danger.?"

It only took British Airways half an hour to reply to the football legend, who has over 999,000 followers on social media. A member of customer services said: "Hi Alan, we're so sorry your bag is delayed. Our Baggage team are doing their best to deliver all delayed baggage as soon as possible. We'll keep you updated via DM."

Whilst the Premier League record goalscorer continues to process his luggage-less heartbreak, football fans were ready to see the funny side of the situation.

Shearer's Tweet had attracted over 100 replies in just a few hours, and one user said: "Oh no, anyone got any spare dad tops and sandals for Alan?"

Another wrote that there was probably "some dude smelling your boxers as we speak", although was quickly told that was "a strange thing to say".

One funny-boned fan wrote: "Will it land before the Harry Kane penalty?"

Meanwhile, others shared similar experiences with British Airways and some fans who had travelled to Newcastle United's recent training camp in Saudi Arabia admitted their luggage had been lost by other airlines too.

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Shearer was kept busy during the World Cup, working with the BBC. Towards the start of the tournament, the ex-Magpie made headlines for criticising FIFA's ruling on the wearing of the OneLove armband but saying players shouldn't feel the brunt of frustrations.

He said: "I don't think it's fair on the players having to deal with this on the morning of the game. They've done incredible work off the pitch, a lot of the England players and manager, including during the pandemic.

"The FA knew it was in the rule book that they weren't allowed to wear the armband. It's not fair on the players having to deal with this before one of the biggest games they will ever play, the morning of a World Cup game. All the players should be thinking about now is how they are going to win this game."