Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper is delighted with the first team chance he is getting this season.

He said: "Saturday was the first time I have kept my place for successive Premier League games when Shay was fit probably since 1999-2000.

"Things have been good for me both on and off the field - I have not missed a minute's training in the two months since we got back.

"It was really unfortunate for Shay to get injured, but to play in the first four Premier League matches was a big bonus for me."