Newcastle’s Harper out for three months

(GSM) – Newcastle United goalkeeper Stephen Harper is expected to spend three months on the sidelines following a successful shoulder surgery.

The keeper was carried off on a stretcher in the first half of the 1-0 win at Everton on Saturday after a challenge by Toffees striker Jermaine Beckford. .

Newcastle have confirmed in a statement that the 35-year-old has undergone surgery will be out of action for ‘around 12 weeks’.

A statement on the club’s official website said: “Following a shoulder ligament injury sustained in United’s game against Everton on Saturday, Steve Harper has undergone a successful operation on Wednesday.

“It is likely Steve will be unavailable for selection for a period of around 12 weeks.”

Harper’s number two Tim Krul is expected to step up and fill the former’s shoes once again, after playing in Newcastle’s shock 4-3 League Cup third round triumph at Chelsea.