Hislop hails under-rated Harper

May 5 2008 by The Journal

FORMER Newcastle goalkeeper Shaka Hislop believes Steve Harper is good enough to establish himself as first choice at one of the Premier League’s ‘Big Four’ – but he still thinks he will end his career at St James’s Park. Harper, the only survivor from Kevin Keegan’s first era with United, has deputised impressively for the injured Shay Given this year, renewing interest from some of the division’s big hitters in a player who is among the most under-rated Englishmen in the top flight.

The Magpies keeper, who will fight it out with Given when the Irish international returns from injury next season, was reported to be attracting interest from Liverpool – a link that does not surprise one of Keegan’s ‘Entertainers’ in 1996.

Hislop, who is part of a delegation from the Show Racism the Red Card initiative that will visit Downing Street next month, thinks Harper has not received the credit from outside the club that is due to him following over a decade at
St James’s Park. But he thinks his happiness in the North East and at Newcastle will persuade him to stay on Tyneside.

“Steve’s always attracted attention. He’s a fantastic goalkeeper and the move would not be difficult for him because he’s that good. But he’s settled in the North East and, having spent three years here myself, I know why,” he said. “It doesn’t surprise me he’s had a good season, it doesn’t surprise me that teams are looking at him. But he’s happy. He will continue to push for a place here until he’s told differently.

“Steve doesn’t get the credit he deserves. I’ve been fortunate enough to train with him on a regular basis and I know how good he is. Perhaps I was in a position of privilege because of that.”

Harper’s outstanding form during a difficult period for United has impressed many and it will not be a case of Given strolling back into the side after his return from injury. Keegan is a confirmed admirer of Harper and that may lead to another extended run in the team – something Hislop believes will aid his old friend.

“Any goalkeeper needs a run in the team. It’s more important to do that than any other position. It’s so dependent on your confidence and you can only get that through a concerted run in the team. It’s a position like no other. You can’t ease yourself into it and take time to get used to the pace of the game. You are thrown in at the deep end and you have to swim.

“It’s not easy for a lot of people to come to terms with that position. It’s something we chose or something that was thrust upon us, depending on who you believe.’’