06 September 2023 , 14:57
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Former Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper has been rushed to hospital after a brain haemhorrage, the club have confirmed.
Harper, 48, spent two decades with the club after initially joining as a teenager. He made more than 100 Premier League appearances, and was also first choice as the Magpies won promotion back to the top flight in the 2009-10 season.
The goalkeeper rejoined Newcastle in a coaching capacity after ending his career with spells on the books of Hull City and Sunderland. He first spent time on Newcastle's coaching staff, before taking over as the Premier League side's academy director in 2021.
" Newcastle United is sending love and best wishes to Steve Harper and his family after the club's Academy director suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage on Monday," the club said in a statement. "The club is pleased to report that Steve is awake and recovering well in hospital.
"Steve, his family and everyone at Newcastle United extends a heartfelt thank you to NHS staff for the incredible care he is receiving. Steve is the longest-serving player in club history after spending 20 years as a goalkeeper at St. James' Park between 1993-2013.
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"After serving as a goalkeeper coach at Newcastle United's Academy and working with the first team, he was named full-time Academy director in 2021 and has continued to enhance the club's talent pathway.
"Steve will be given the club's full support as he recovers. Everyone connected with Newcastle United sends their best wishes to Steve and his family as he continues his recuperation."
Steve Harper played more than 100 Premier League games for Newcastle United (Newcastle Chronicle)Harper was a popular figure at Newcastle in his playing days, and his 2013 testimonial against AC Milan featured a number of the club's legends. Alan Shearer and David Ginola were among those involved against a Milan team involving Paolo Maldini as the club legend brought an end to his 20 years as a Newcastle player, and he remains popular among the club's supporters today.
A number of fans shared messages of support for Harper after Newcastle shared the news. "Everything crossed for a full recovery," wrote one, while there were multiple "get well soon" messages.
"Ah, really sorry to hear this; get well soon Steve," wrote one fan. "Best wishes to Steve and hopes for a speedy recovery. He is a top man," wrote another.
Harper's former club Hull put out a message of their own, saying they were "Sending all our love and strength to you" A supporters' group for the club also showed their support, writing: "So sorry to hear this news. Steve was such a wonderful presence at City. We wish him a full and speedy recovery, and our thoughts are with his family.".