Robson hands rare chance to Harper

Sir Bobby Robson gives a rare chance to his reserve keeper Steve Harper for Newcastle’s Carling Cup third-round tie with West Brom at St James’ Park tonight.

Newcastle number one 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.

But he did make an appearance in the UEFA Cup win against Breda in Holland a fortnight ago and Robson has no qualms about giving him another go.

The Newcastle manager said: “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 Democratic Republic of Congo striker Lomano LuaLua also getting a rare chance.

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.”

Newcastle are looking for their sixth win in October, which would be a truly remarkable feat – but Robson is not thinking things will be easy against one of his former clubs.

He said: “West Brom have had some difficult times in the last 20 years, but I thought they were very unlucky to go out of the Premiership last season, especially as they lost so many matches by the odd goal.

“They are going to be difficult opponents for us tonight as they have done well this season and in Gary Megson they have a fine young manager.

“We know that some of the other top sides in the Premiership will be fielding weakened teams in the competition, but we want to do well.”