Robson's Faith In Newcastle Keeper Steve Harper
By Matthew Jones
October 29 2003
Sir Bobby Robson will be giving a rare chance to reserve keeper Steve Harper tonight, when he plays him in Newcastle's Carling Cup tie with West Brom at St James' Park. Harper has been sidelined, due to the fact that Shay Given holds the record for the most successive Premiership appearances.
Sir Bobby Robson will be giving a rare chance to reserve keeper Steve Harper tonight, when he plays him in Newcastle's Carling Cup tie with West Brom at St James' Park.
Shay Given holds the record for the most successive Premiership appearances - 101 more than any other player - and as a result, Harper's chances have been limited.
Harper did however make appearance in the Uefa Cup win against Breda in Holland and Robson is keen on giving him "another go".
Robson explained: "Shay is absolutely outstanding, and while he maintains his form, there is little chance of anyone ousting him.
"So now and then when this sort of game comes along, I think it's right we look at Steve Harper. He's exceptionally loyal, and he's a very talented and top-class goalkeeper.
"We want him here and we don't want him to think about leaving or going elsewhere. We are extremely happy he's here and he gives us terrific cover. And when we do play him, we know that we can rely on him and that he never lets us down.
"He didn't let us down in Breda and it's important we keep him warm and up with the pace of the Premiership.
"He needs to play every now and then and Shay has to realise this and he does, because they are good friends. Both want to play, but only one can."
Robson will make one or two other changes with striker Lomano LuaLua expected to start alongside Shearer.
Robson added: "The games are coming thick and fast, and we cannot play the same 11 every match, and the rest we give them is of great benefit."