Newcastle United boss Sam Allardyce has warned Shay Given that Steve Harper remains his Premiership No1.

He told the Evening Chronicle: "The performance of Steve leaves me in a position where I say to myself: 'For what reason can I leave this player out?' And there isn't one.

"Harper's form has been absolutely top drawer, and he made another two crucial saves which were very, very good against West Ham on Sunday.

"That leaves Shay in a very difficult position because of his past at this football club.

"He is one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier League, and you have Harper matching him.

"What more could a manager want than that headache?"