Alan Pardew: “Steve came on (yesterday) and you would think he was going down the pub.
“He strolled on with such confidence because he's been here so many years and seen it all before.
“It's brilliant for him, and it's strange the way it's worked out.
"He's a great person. He'll definitely play because we can't appeal the two yellows, and for Harps it will be a special occasion.
"His contract is up and we haven't really discussed that. It'll be a great day for him and his family.”
Harper came off the bench late in yesterday’s 2-1 win over Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road after goalkeeper Rob Elliot was sent off for handling outside the box.
It was Harper’s 198th career appearance for the club he has served for the past two decades.
For his part, Easington-born Harper’s just relieved he’ll be leaving a Premier League club, having gone through the agony of relegation with United four years ago.
Steve Harper: “It might not have been the prettiest game, but it was a particularly pretty result, because it means we’re safe.
“That’s the all and end all.
“That was the mission for the day, and that’s what we’ve done.
“The relief in the dressing room was obvious. To come from behind as well was a real show of determination. It was a big, big result.
“It was one thing having the possibility of relegation at Villa Park, but to have the possibility of relegation at St James’s Park was unthinkable.
“It’s not something that can happen.”
"I think the second yellow card 10 minutes from time was harsh.
“I think it was pretty harsh having seen it on the video.
“The ball bounces on the line into the box. Yes, Robbie’s feet might be outside the box, but it wasn’t his feet that needed to be outside the box.
“The linesman didn’t give it initially. He seems to have reacted to the home crowd. It’s disappointing for Robbie. He’s done really well for us.
“He’s a great lad, he’s worked hard and he’s shown what a good goalkeeper he is. Fortunately, it hasn’t cost us.”