Allardyce Waiting To 'Cross The Bridge'

Last updated : 15 September 2007 By Footy Mad - Editor

Given attempts to dislodgeHarper from Newcastle's starting line-up, but the Magpies manager has admitted the Republic of Ireland international is no longer the club's undisputed number one.

When asked who was going to pick in the build-up to Monday's Premier League game at Derby, Allardyce answered "we'll cross that bridge when we come to it".

Allardyce: "It's very good to have two quality keepers fighting for one place.

"Steve Harper has not put a foot wrong in the games he's played - we're undefeated and he's had two clean sheets.

"Shay did very well against Barnsley (in the Carling Cup), but he didn't have a lot to do. He kept a clean sheet, but didn't get selected for the next game because of Steve's good form.

"Shay wasn't happy because he wants to play in every game, but he had two games to play for Ireland, Steve wasn't playing for England, so Shay had a rest. It's my job to decide between the two of them.

"Steve may have come close to England if he'd played regular first-team football. Some people may say he should have moved on, but you can't argue with his patience.

"He made his decision, he obviously loves this football club and he's enjoyed his time here. He got his chance when Shay got injured and, at the moment, he's playing really, really well."