Newcastle United legend rushed to hospital following ‘medical emergency’

Newcastle confirmed the former goalkeeper, who is the longest-serving player in the club’s history, suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage on Monday. The 48-year-old is awake and recovering well in hospital.

Harper represented Newcastle from 1993 to 2013, making 199 first-team appearances in all competitions.

The club have thanked NHS staff for their help and passed on its best wishes to Harper and his family as he recovers.

Following his retirement, Harper returned to Newcastle as a goalkeeper coach for the club’s academy and first-team before being named academy director in 2021.

An official club statement read: “Newcastle United is sending love and best wishes to Steve Harper and his family after the club’s Academy director suffered a subarachnoid haemorrhage on Monday.

The club is pleased to report that Steve is awake and recovering well in hospital.

Steve, his family and everyone at Newcastle United extends a heartfelt thank you to NHS staff for the incredible care he is receiving.

Steve is the longest-serving player in club history after spending 20 years as a goalkeeper at St. James’ Park between 1993-2013.

After serving as a goalkeeper coach at Newcastle United’s Academy and working with the first team, he was named full-time Academy director in 2021 and has continued to enhance the club’s talent pathway.

“Steve will be given the club’s full support as he recovers.

“Everyone connected with Newcastle United sends their best wishes to Steve and his family as he continues his recuperation.”