England legend Gary Lineker says Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper deserves World Cup consideration by Three Lions coach Fabio Capello.

In his column for the Mail on Sunday, Lineker wrote: "I wonder if Fabio Capello might take a leaf out of Bobby Robson's book by casting his eye over a player who is excelling in the Championship while rivals are floundering in the Premier League.

"Newcastle United goalkeeper Steve Harper has been one of the main reasons his side are heading back to the top flight.

"Finding goalkeepers is a world problem because of the way the game has changed, particularly in the movement of the ball.

"I've seen even the best, like Iker Casillas and Gianluigi Buffon, have nightmares this season. So why not look at Harper? He's solid, dependable and I know Alan Shearer rates him. But as far as I have seen, he hasn't been mentioned.

"Having understudied Shay Given for years, he will not be fazed by sitting on the bench and staying focused if needed at a second's notice."