Steve Harper says new manager Sam Allardyce has made a big impact at Newcastle United.

The goalkeeper told the Evening Chronicle: "It's great that Sam is at the club.

"I have seen a few managers come and go, but hopefully he can be the one who brings success.

"He comes with an excellent record from his time at Bolton, and Gary Speed, who he has worked with for the last two or three years, couldn't speak any more highly of him.

"He does everything possible to get the most out of his players, so we are looking forward to the new season."

One bone of contention for many United fans is exactly how Newcastle will play under Allardyce, after some of his tactics caused a major stir at Bolton.

However, Harper said: "Who says how we will play?

"He used his resources at Bolton to get the maximum out of players - and he has even more resources here.

"Until he is given the time, which he deserves because it's a big job.

"We will have to wait and see what happens with our style of play."