Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew has dropped a big hint goalkeeper Steve Harper will be leaving permanently.

Harper made his Brighton debut at home to West Ham United last night and, although Pardew was effusive, his comments were ominous for the 36-year-old's long-term prospects on Tyneside.

He said: "Steve is going to play for the next three or four years at the top level, so this is an opportunity for him to show his wares. If he does not stay at Brighton, he will always get a top club."