Harper to battle for Given’s shirt

STEVE HARPER has warned Shay Given the fight for the Newcastle goalkeeper’s shirt is far from over.

The 32-year-old Englishman and the Republic of Ireland international, 31, are close friends but at the same time have been huge rivals at St James’ Park for the last decade.

Harper was devastated to learn he had lost his place in the team for Saturday’s trip to Manchester City after starting the previous six Premier League games following Given’s groin injury.

Manager Sam Allardyce, who initially stuck with Harper even when the man who has occupied the number one spot for so long was fit again, admitted he did not deserve to lose his place, but went with his gut feeling at Eastlands.

Harper has demonstrated a remarkable patience over the years and while he will, as ever, remain professional, he will not cease in his effort to oust Given.

He said: “The battle goes on.

“It goes without saying that I was desperately disappointed to be left on the bench on Saturday, but I must say what made it easier for me was that I lost my place to a top-class goalkeeper.

“But I am not one to spit out my dummy and all I can do is keep working hard and try to get back into the team.

“We flew down to Manchester early on Friday morning and had a work-out at the Manchester United training ground, and it was then that the manager told me I was not playing.

“Obviously I was gutted and very disappointed, but I am a professional and I have always stood by the manager’s decision in all my time here no matter who it has been.”