Newcastle keeper Steve Harper is hoping for a Newcastle coaching role at some stage when his 20-year association with the club comes to an end in May. "I've been there over half my life, and it'll be a sad day on 19 May when I leave for the last time," the 38 year old told BBC Late Kick-Off.

"Maybe part of me was expecting it, but still when you hear it it's not nice. But that's the way the world is.

"We have a young, vibrant squad now, and I'm by far the oldest player."

When asked if he would like to coach Newcastle, he said: "Definitely, without a shadow of a doubt.

"I'm well on with my coaching badges now, I have another badge in the summer and it's something I'd love to do.

"But it certainly didn't crop up in the conversation with the manager, so it looks like I'll have to go to pastures new."