And tonight’s 3-2 win over Feyenoord, courtesy of Craig Bellamy’s late winner, took them into the second round at the expense of Dynamo Kiev – who were beaten by group winners Juventus.

Former England striker Shearer said afterwards: “What resolve we have in our team.

“We were Catch 22 at 2-2 tonight because if we pushed on and conceded a goal we weren’t even in the UEFA Cup – so we didn’t know what to do.

“To lose our first three games and qualify like this is remarkable.”

Shearer continued on ITV2: “We were aware it was 0-0 at half-time in Kiev so things were looking good then.

“But I said ‘If I’m a betting man‘ – which I am – ‘I wouldn’t put any money on Juventus‘.

Bellamy’s late winner was his second goal of his comeback game following a knee injury and strike partner Shearer added: “Craig’s a big player for us.

“When he’s out we miss him because he’s got pace – there are not many defenders who can catch him.

“He scored two very big goals for us tonight.

“He were worried about his knee. We’re thankful he’s okay and firing on all cylinders because we’re not as good a team without him.”

Bellamy said: "I've been fortunate. People have worked wonders to get me fit because they know I wanted to play in this game - and I've worked hard too.

“I knew this was going to be the big one, although we should have beaten Feyenoord at home and it should have been more comfortable tonight.

“We’ve done it the hard way but we are a good side and we deserve to be in the second round.”