Alan Shearer rejected the chance to become Kevin Keegan's assistant at Newcastle as he felt he would not be helping the club.
Keegan was keen to bring the Magpies' all-time leading goalscorer on board after returning to St James' Park as manager for a second time.
But Shearer felt his own personality is too similar to the former England manager and that could hinder the progress of the club.
Shearer told The Sun: "I have not snubbed anyone or anything like that. I chatted to Kevin for four hours at my house first time. Then we had another long meeting on Monday.
"Throughout the talks, all I was thinking about was what would be best for Newcastle - not what would be best for me.
"This club has given me too much for me to turn my back at a time when I might be able to help. But I don't think I would be a help right now - and I have explained that to Kevin.
"He basically told me I could come in as his assistant or in any role I wanted, but the timing is just not right."
Shearer feels his own high profile could end up being a hindrance rather than a help as Keegan tries to ensure Newcastle stay clear of relegation trouble.
"Right now I think the last thing they would need is another dominant personality, another name," he said.
"It needs one personality driving things forward at the club - and that is Kevin Keegan. It needs to be his way, and if it is I think he can turn things round. Myself and Kevin were just too similar personalities - we are both opinionated.
"We are both single-minded and have our ideas about how things should be done. That is not the best mix - you need to be different. So for plenty of reasons, I had to say no.
"I'm not saying the door is closed for ever. Just right now there is plenty to be sorted out there - and one man needs to do it and do it his way.
"All the time I will remain a fan of my club, but for now that is all."
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