Steve Harper relishing starting berth in Arsenal match

Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper has declared that he is relishing the prospect of starting against Arsenal this weekend.

Harper will almost certainly be chosen to play in his side's final match of the campaign, with Rob Elliot suspended and Tim Krul still sidelined by a knee injury.

After coming on to help his side secure safety with a 2-1 success at Queens Park Rangers last weekend, Harper has insisted that he is ready to perform against the Gunners.

He told the club's official website: "I was hoping to play but not in these circumstances.

"Rob is a great lad who works so hard and it's horrible on him. I thought the sending off was very harsh, his feet were outside the box but I don't think anyone could tell if the ball actually was.

"The big thing is we are safe. However, I'm looking forward to the Arsenal game, it will be fantastic."

The 38-year-old has been a loyal servant at St James' Park, spending two decades with the Magpies and clocking up just under 200 Newcastle appearances.