Toon fans finding their way here to defend Sir Alan?

I've seen it all.
He was obviously a top striker, and England have obviously had plenty of good individuals over the years, but I really do wonder what a lot of these players would have done in Serie A around the turn of the century. Would have been interesting to see. I think the midfielders in particular would have done very well.
One thing on Shearer - he wouldn't have had the protection he had back in the PL. I saw that guy live many times and he was a horrible, dirty striker who the refs let get away with murder.