The form of Shay Given has kept Harper out of the team for almost all of Sir Bobby’s spell in charge but he is keen to play a part in bringing silverware to Tyneside and realises that if he moves he is unlikely to be able to repeat last season’s experience of playing in the Champions League.
"There's a good buzz about the place and now I just want to get a good season under my belt," he told the Evening Chronicle.
"I've been here a long time, 12 years, and I'm from the area, so I don't want to leave. But I want to play more than three games a season. If I can play more then I'll be the happiest man in the world. My luck's got to change sometime.
"We'll be playing a lot of games again, hopefully with us getting through the Champions League qualifiers and into the group stage, and hopefully I'll get a chance.
"Shay has done fantastically well and steered clear of injuries. He's made the most consecutive appearances in the Premiership and, while I wouldn't wish an injury on anyone, that run has to come to an end one day."