Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has heaped praise on goalkeeper Steve Harper.

He told the Evening Chronicle: "Steve is top quality in my opinion but I know I can wake up feeling good and rest easily knowing that is an area in which we are covered well.

"I know Steve is as good as Shay when he is called upon.

"Shay and Harps are like brothers, they have been here that long.

"Harps will be happier than he as been before because he has played a lot more last season than in previous years.

"Shay is disappointed because he has never had so many injuries than now.

"However, I would maintain the goalkeepers are fighting healthily for that one place.

"If Stevie comes in and plays well when Shay is out that is only healthy competition and that for me would be the type of big challenge for the gloves I like to see.

"Certainly, with Shay playing so many games, you have to admire Steve for his loyalty and his patience at the club.

"Shay is top quality and to replace him is a massive task."