Harper vows to challenge Given

Newcastle goalkeeper Steve Harper has warned Shay Given he is gunning for his place after signing a two-year contract extension.

The 31-year-old, who has spent most of the last seven years as the Irishman's deputy, admitted the decision to stay at St James' Park until 2009 was probably the toughest of his career. However, he will not be satisfied just to sit in Given's shadow after rejecting the chance to move elsewhere.

Harper said: "Signing this contract extension was probably the biggest decision I have had to make in my entire footballing career. I have made no secret of the fact that I want to be playing first-team football on a regular basis."

He added: "I still feel I have many good years left in me at the top of the game and I would love those to be spent helping Newcastle United achieve success.

"Anyone who thinks I am happy just to collect my wages and sit on the bench every week during the season could not be more wrong.

"In fact, my desire to play first-team football burns brighter than ever.

"I want to play first-team football and I want to do that here at Newcastle United.

"When I got a start in the UEFA Cup earlier in the season at St James' Park, even if it was a quiet evening for me over 90 minutes, it still reminded me that this is the club I want to play for.

"It was fantastic news for the club and the fans when Shay Given signed his new contract in the summer.

"He is a great friend, but we're also great rivals and every day in training we push each other all the way so that our high standards never slip."