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Hughton: Harper for England
Newcastle United, 12:43, February 25, 2009 ,
Newcastle United's Steve Harper has been backed by stand-in boss Chris Hughton to become England's first choice goalkeeper.
The sale of Shay Given to Manchester City has given Harper his chance to take the Newcastle number one spot and Hughton has been impressed by his form so far.
Given's move to City may have helped Harper even further as he has taken Joe Hart's place in the City side, with Hart tippped by many as David James' eventual successor in the national side.
Speaking to the Northern Echo Hughton said: "What has probably held him back is that he's not had a sustained run of games,"
"But if you're looking at the England quality goalkeepers in the country - he's up there with them.
"How many are there actually playing on a regular basis?"