Bob Wilson: “He sometimes slips under the radar outside Newcastle, but make no mistake Steve is one of the very, very best.
“We like to talk of a goalkeepers’ union because we are the only ones who know what goalkeepers go through, and every member of that would recognise what a good goalie Steve is.
“I think the word is solid. He does all the fundamentals so well - you just hardly ever see him make a mistake.
“Sometimes if your positioning is so good you do not need to make a flying top- corner save and that is Steve, although he can make those saves as well.
“He was probably unlucky that Shay (Given) was so outstanding while he was there.
“If he was a few years younger I have no doubt England would have come calling.
“I have huge admiration for his loyalty to Newcastle United.
“He is just totally and utterly committed to the club, through rain and shine.”