Thursday 18 August 2016 17:13, UK
Newcastle United have appointed Steve Harper as their new Academy goalkeeping coach.
Harper is the club's longest-serving player and spent 20 years at St James' Park between 1993 and 2013, making 199 appearances in goal and representing the Magpies in the FA Cup final, Champions League, UEFA Cup and Europa League as well as domestic games.
Following his release by Newcastle, Harper spent time at Hull City and Sunderland, but has returned home to start the next step of his career.
The 41-year-old will now work with goalkeepers from U9 to U16 level at the club's Little Benton Academy.
As well as operating on the training pitch, Harper will help create a programme that "develops the youngsters in a consistent manner that meets the philosophy of Newcastle United".
"I'm delighted to be working with the young goalkeepers at the Academy," said Harper.
"I've been involved in grassroots football in the area for the last six years so I have extensive knowledge of the many junior football clubs throughout the region."It's great to be back at the club in a coaching capacity and I'm looking forward to starting."
