Stephen Alan Harper (born 14 March 1975) is known as 'the most patient man in football' after sitting on the Newcastle United bench for 16 years during which time he made numerous abortive attempts to kill Shay Given. In 1993, Newcastle signed Harper from Seaham Red Star - the County Durham-based feeder club to Red Star Belgrade. Although a decent enough 'keeper with a pleasant demeanour, Harper would play second fiddle to trouser-wearing Czech Pavel Srnicek, Shaka Hislop and Shay Given for the next 16 years.