Steve Harper: 'Thibaut Courtois did not make a mistake against Charlie Adam'

Hull City goalkeeper Steve Harper has defended Chelsea counterpart Thibaut Courtois after he found himself on the receiving end of a 60-yard goal by Stoke City midfielder Charlie Adam.

The Belgian international was caught off his line by Adam's long-range thunderbolt in the 44th minute of the Blues' 2-1 win over the Potters at Stamford Bridge on Sunday.

Harper, once beaten by a shot from his own half by Liverpool's Xabi Alonso, told BBC Sport: "The days of a goalkeeper with his starting position standing under the crossbar are long gone.

"They do such a good job sweeping up behind their defence that far outweighs and counters being done over your head once in a blue moon like that.

"For me it's not a mistake, it's a fantastic execution from Charlie."

Adam's goal has been lauded as one of the greatest goals in recent years.