Alan Shearer has expressed profound grief over the death of his father, also named Alan, who passed away earlier this year after a battle with cancer. In a heartfelt column for The Athletic, Shearer reflected on the emotional challenges he faces as he prepares to return to Match of the Day, particularly when hearing the show's iconic theme tune, which was played at his father's funeral. Shearer described the experience of carrying his father's coffin as 'the hardest thing I’ve ever done' and emphasized the strong bond they shared, crediting his father for igniting his passion for football. He conveyed that his father was a grounded individual who specifically requested to be at home surrounded by family during his final moments. Despite continuing his broadcasting duties, Shearer admitted that the upcoming season feels markedly different without his father's presence. The poignant memories of their shared moments watching football together intensify the emotional weight he carries into this new chapter.