The really good news about Steve Harper’s testimonial last night is that the Newcastle United Foundation, the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and the Great North Children’s Hospital will benefit from the big sums of money that were raised on a night when Steve Harper at times found it difficult to control his emotions.
An emotional Steve Harper last night
And the man who joined Newcastle in 1993 and gave up a place at University to become a PE teacher, had this to say after the events of last night:
“They have come along to see some of the greats of the modern era, and they saw all of them. It was great for everyone to be out there and I’m humbled by the turn out in my dressing room, the AC Milan dressing room and most of all by the supporters – we had a real celebration of the 20 years.”
“We brought the kick-off forward to 7pm so people could bring their kids along and cut the prices to £10 so everyone would buy into it. We made it quite clear at the start when the proposal was made that every penny would be put into those magnificent charities in the North East.”
“By the fans’ incredible response with tickets, the good share of the bar takings, the auction and the bits we’ll no doubt put on eBay later we will raise a fantastic amount.” “I just have to say thank you to everyone – I’m absolutely humbled by it and they have really shown what this tremendous football club is really all about.”
Steve Harper represents the top professional – a player who gave his all for the club, even though he was second choice a lot to Shay Given, and then later in his career to a young Tim Krul.
But fans recognize the commitment of Steve to his home town club – and we just hope he can return to Newcastle in the future as a coach, or in some other capacity.
Follow us on Twitter, like us on Facebook and +1 us on Google+:
You can also reach Ed at admin@nufcblog.com
9 comments so far
Himanshu Dhingra
Sep 12, 2013 at 9:57 AM
Comment #1Your Welcome
Himanshu Dhingra
Sep 12, 2013 at 9:57 AM
Comment #2Cannot believe Pardew will start Blabbering again today in his pre match press conference.
Blah, Blah Blah, Blah blah blah.
JackButler
Sep 12, 2013 at 9:59 AM
Comment #3In a game thats filled with money hungry, egotistical players who for them loyalty is a word they cannot even spell, Harper stands out as an amazing professional, who’s love, commitment and passion for Newcastle United will always be remembered
WWSBRD
Sep 12, 2013 at 9:59 AM
Comment #4Even the booking fee?
JackButler
Sep 12, 2013 at 10:01 AM
Comment #5SBR
How much was the booking fee?
WWSBRD
Sep 12, 2013 at 10:02 AM
Comment #6Pound per ticket when buying online and they were only available online to begin with
roy
Sep 12, 2013 at 10:03 AM
Comment #7Its back to reality when Pardew begins droning on. If only Ashley would grasp how important the club is to its supporters and the region and hire a proper manager.
Transfer Sage
Sep 12, 2013 at 10:04 AM
Comment #8can’t believe harper played some cricket for merton (i think it was) this season…was just due to play against him but he then went to hull for a medical. gutted to have missed him.
He’s a true gent and a club legend, gave his whole career to the club and could have had many many england caps if a regular.
martoon
Sep 12, 2013 at 10:24 AM
Comment #9Roy & Himanshu – To be fair Pardew is obliged to hold a press conference and at least he speaks to the press. I shouldn’t imagine he is looking forward to it because it will be the first time he will be challenged by the press about the transfer window and his supposed statement.