Harper made his debut for the Magpies under then manager Ruud Gullit in 1998, going on to make 52 appearances for the club.

But the 32-year-old has fallen behind Republic of Ireland international Given in the pecking order at St James' Park.

And Harper has now conceded he must make the decision between Newcastle and his desire for first-team football.

"I will have a long break and that will give me time to think about things," said Harper.

"I don't want to go through another season like the last one. I signed a contract last summer but I didn't sign it to sit on the bench for three years.

"People say I'm just one injury away from playing but I've nicknamed Shay `Lazarus'.

"He has that many little knocks but has always managed to play. He doesn't give in and even if he cut his leg off he'd want to play."