Steve Harper says there's been little backlash from his move to Sunderland.

Harper says the majority of black-and-white fans have wished him well on his move to the Stadium of Light – but admits he took the precaution of closing his Twitter account.

The 40-year-old, who appeared 199 times for the Magpies, said: "There was always going to be a reaction but I am not the first and I certainly won't be the last (to play for both clubs).

"Bigger and better players than me have done it and played for both clubs with no issues.

"I think I am the first to do it in the new social media age, so I read the script and deactivated my Twitter account before I signed so as not to get involved.

"But every message I have had from friends, ex-colleagues and even genuine, hard-core Newcastle fans have said 'Great to see you back in the game and good luck'."