Newcastle United boss Alan Pardew says Steve Harper could play first team football again for the Magpies this season.

Pardew is unsure whether the goalkeeper will go out on loan again in January, but would have no hesitation about using him again.

"Harps is a great keeper in his own right," he said.

"He's come back here, he went out on loan to Brighton and did really well and to get some games.

"I think he wants to be involved and he's sitting there with Rob (Elliot) I might add in the background hoping - I guess, and it's not a nice thing but unfortunately its the goalies world - that there's a chance for him.

"Whether that's an injury to Tim or a lack of form or whatever.

"At the moment Tim is not opening the door."